LOS ANGELES – A serial armed robber has been apprehended in connection with over 60 robberies. According to the Los Angeles Police Department.
According to police, 68 armed business robberies have been linked to one suspect since October 2021. Charles Chukwuma Onwuemelie, 29 years old.
Known as the ‘Blue Cloth Bandit,’ Onwuemelie concealed his handgun with a blue cloth during the robberies. According to officials, he would disguise himself by wearing various hats, face masks, and rubber gloves. The exact vehicle was used in several robberies.
According to police, he targeted gas stations, 7-Eleven stores, and Walmart locations throughout the city and county of Los Angeles. According to LAPD detectives, sixteen robberies occurred within city limits.
After police issued a search and arrest warrant, Onwuemelie was arrested at his home in Quartz Hill. Detectives discovered additional evidence linking him to the robberies and a firearm.
The Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office filed 16 counts of robbery on September 27 for crimes committed within the city. The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department may file additional charges for the thefts within LA County’s borders.