In a startling new wave of thefts, a group of thieves in Southern California has targeted a Burbank store, making off with over $100,000 worth of Pokémon cards. This incident marks the latest in a series of similar crimes plaguing the region, as this valuable merchandise continues to lure criminals.
High-Speed Heist in Burbank
The Burbank branch of LA Sports Cards fell victim to a rapid and well-coordinated theft on December 2. Within a mere three minutes, three masked individuals raided the store, prying open the doors and swiftly transporting armfuls of Pokémon merchandise to a getaway vehicle. Reports suggest these thieves have hit multiple card shops in similar fashion, escaping with high-value items.
NEW: Burglars ransack card shop and steal $100,000 worth of rare Pokémon and sports cards
The owner believes the thieves knew exactly where the merchandise was and planned the job ahead of time
They got away with about $100,000 in merchandise
Police believe the same crew may… pic.twitter.com/zMIurJ86U9
— Unlimited L’s (@unlimited_ls) December 6, 2025
Targeting Pokémon and Sports Cards
According to store owner Kiet Nguyen, the thieves specifically targeted Pokémon cards, though they also seized some rare sports collectibles, including a signed Ronaldo card. “They were targeting liquid assets,” Nguyen remarked. “Pokémon is so easy to sell these days that sealed product, everyone has it.” The thieves’ familiarity with the store’s layout suggests careful premeditation, indicating a well-planned operation.
Sources have stated that this criminal group may be linked to “half a dozen” similar thefts across Southern California, with some suspects captured partially on CCTV. Authorities urge any witnesses or those with information to contact the Burbank Police Department.
The Rising Value of Pokémon Cards
This surge in Pokémon card thefts highlights their growing status as high-value goods in the eyes of criminals. Last year, reports surfaced about Japanese crime syndicates using these cards for money laundering. With Pokémon’s enduring popularity and new games on the horizon, such incidents may persist, keeping the trading card community on high alert.