**Robbery at Tasikmalaya Minimarket: Perpetrators Use Airsoft Gun and Hostage Employees**
In a shocking turn of events, a robbery and act of violence occurred at a minimarket in Tasikmalaya, West Java, on Thursday, January 9, 2025. The incident took place at 07:30 AM as store employees Nurpadilah and Ifan were opening the shop. The area of Sukamulya was experiencing heavy rainfall at the time.
**Perpetrators’ Deceptive Tactics**
A few minutes after opening, a customer entered the store and inquired about raincoats. Little did the employees know, this was just a guise by the perpetrators who were posing as customers. As Nurpadilah, a minimarket staff member, led them to the storage area, the perpetrator named Wijaya (32) pushed them towards the back near the bathroom and brandished an airsoft gun, demanding to know the store manager and safe location.
**Hostages and Demands**
The perpetrator proceeded to ask the victims to show the safe located on the second floor. Tying up the employees and store manager using cables and duct tape, the criminal then attempted to force the manager to open the safe. Despite being unable to crack the safe, the perpetrator damaged the CCTV recorder and stole over Rp 1.9 million from the cash register before fleeing the scene.
**Arrest and Seized Evidence**
Law enforcement swiftly captured the perpetrator not far from the Tasikmalaya City Hall, seizing evidence including an airsoft gun, cash totaling over Rp 1.9 million, a bag, and the CCTV DVR taken during the robbery.
In a statement to TribunPriangan.com, AKP Herman Saputra, the Head of Criminal Investigation at the Tasikmalaya City Police, confirmed the arrest of the perpetrator. The swift action of the authorities led to the successful capture of the criminal shortly after the incident.
This harrowing incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by store employees and the importance of vigilance and security measures in retail establishments. It highlights the bravery and resilience of the victims in the face of adversity, showcasing the community’s commitment to safety and justice.
