Poki Poki Cevicheria, a staple in Albuquerque's Northeast Heights, has endured two break-ins in just nine days, bringing the total to three burglaries this year alone. Owner Robert Punya, who has been serving the community from his Wyoming and Comanche location for eight years, was devastated to discover the latest theft—a stolen safe—after the most recent break-in.
Captured on security footage, the thief meticulously removed a glass pane to gain entry and made off with the safe in under five minutes. "Poki Poki’s like my home," Punya told KOB4 in a recent interview. "This space, I’m here a lot, and it just kind of feels like a violation of your home."
The back-to-back break-ins have left Punya feeling disheartened, but the Northeast Heights community has rallied around him, offering overwhelming support during this challenging time. "The Northeast Heights has always been really good to us; we love being out here," Punya shared with KOB4, emphasizing how much the community’s response has meant to him.
Source: KOB4
In response to the burglaries, Poki Poki has temporarily gone cashless and is considering making this change permanent while exploring enhanced security measures.
The KOB4 interview underscores the resilience of Punya and the community, showing that local support is crucial in tough times. With the community and local news behind him, Punya is confident Poki Poki will continue serving the area he loves.
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