Alameda police arrest suspect in 5 armed robberies

(KRON) -- A suspect in five armed robberies in Alameda was arrested Wednesday after weeks of investigation, according to the Alameda Police Department. Detectives said that in each of the five robberies, which go back as far as late September, the victim was walking alone when the suspect approached and threatened them with what appeared to be a firearm.

In October, an Alameda police officer spotted the suspect’s vehicle driving away from one of the robberies and attempted a traffic stop. The driver then “engaged in unsafe driving,” Alameda PD said, and the pursuing officer disengaged.

Police continued the investigation, and on Wednesday, a search and arrest warrant was executed in Alameda and Oakland. Officers uncovered bank cards, a credit card scanner and a replica firearm in the search, police said. The suspect, who Alameda PD did not identify, was arrested.

Authorities advised the community to stay alert while walking alone and keep valuables out of sight. “Trust your instincts,” Alameda police said, “If something does not feel right, head to a public place.”