San Fernando police are on a manhunt for five assailants accused of robbing and assaulting prominent San Fernando philanthropist, Jowelle De Souza, in Palmiste on Wednesday night.
Investigators said around 7:25 pm on Wednesday the gunmen went to Meadow Drive and entered through an unlocked door on the northern side of the property.
One of the bandits, described as 5 feet 3 inches tall, with a dark complexion and slim build, donning a red t-shirt and black three-quarter jeans held a gun and announced a holdup.
Police said they assaulted De Souza before binding her hands and feet with tie straps. The assailants then proceeded to ransack the premises.
They stole a safe, containing documents, as well as an array of luxury items including Louis Vuitton handbags and two Apple iPads. The total value of the stolen items is yet to be fully ascertained.
Following the heist, the perpetrators swiftly fled the scene, leaving De Souza traumatized.
De Souza who is the vice president of Animals Alive has spent her life rescuing stray dogs from around the country. She also supports several charities and gives free training at her salon “Hair By Jowelle” on Independence Avenue, San Fernando. The ordeal has sent shockwaves through the business community, with residents expressing concern over the brazen nature of the attack.
Police say heightened security measures are being implemented in the area to prevent any further incidents. Anyone with information on the robbery can contact CrimeStoppers at 800-TIPS.