Punjabi-Owned Jewelry Store in Montreal Robbed in Violent Car-Ramming Heist

Despite repeated warnings about safety concerns in his neighborhood, jewelry store owner Gaganjeet Singh faced a harrowing ordeal on Saturday evening when thieves executed a calculated smash-and-grab at his shop. Using a car to ram through the storefront of Famous Jewellers in Parc-Extension, the robbers stole between $600,000 and $700,000 in gold, leaving Singh injured and his business in shambles.

Singh, who had recently called on police to enhance patrols along de Liège Street, expressed his frustration and fear after the robbery. “I warned them, but nothing changed,” Singh said. “We work tirelessly, especially during the holiday season, and now everything is gone.”

The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. on Saturday when surveillance cameras captured a car reversing into the shop with force. Three masked individuals stormed in, smashing display cases and grabbing gold jewelry. Employees screamed as Singh valiantly tried to confront the thieves, sustaining injuries to his upper body.

“They didn’t just destroy the store; they hurt all of us,” Singh said, still recovering from the ordeal.

This brazen heist is not the first time Famous Jewellers has been victimized. Earlier this year, the store was burglarized, leaving Singh and his employees on edge.

“Even at night, we’re constantly worried about the store,” he admitted. “The fear never leaves us.”

The robbery highlights a troubling pattern of thefts targeting Montreal businesses. On December 17, thieves broke into a boutique in Mile End, stealing $8,000 worth of goods. Nearby jewelry stores have also reported break-ins in recent weeks, raising alarm among local business owners.

While the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) has promised increased patrols during the holiday season, spokesperson Sabrina Gauthier clarified that incidents involving cars used as weapons remain rare.

“We understand the frustration of store owners like Mr. Singh,” Gauthier said. “But we urge the public to prioritize safety. Confronting burglars can be dangerous as suspects are often armed.”

Police have confirmed that one suspect is in custody for questioning, though no arrests have been made. Authorities are investigating the exact value of the stolen merchandise while searching for the remaining culprits.

For Singh, the lack of proactive security measures has been disheartening. “I warned the police, and yet here we are,” he said. “Our safety and livelihood are at stake, and we need immediate action.”

As business owners in Montreal demand better protection, Singh’s experience stands as a stark reminder of the vulnerability facing local enterprises in high-crime areas.