Philadelphia police search for suspect wanted in at least 8 robberies

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia police are asking for the public's help finding a man wanted for at least eight robberies.

Police said the suspect robbed Harry's Hair and Nail Salon on the 5500 block of North 5th Street at about 8 a.m. on January 10.

Danny Phan said his father was the victim.

"He followed him right in before the door could even shut. The guy just walked right up to him and told him, 'Give me your money or give me your wallet,'" Phan recalled.

"He told my father to put his hands up so he could check all his pockets and stuff like that. I was distraught it happened to us, especially because we've been in the community for so long."

Police say a pattern has developed based on the victims. They believe the suspect has been targeting Latino and Asian businesses.

Jeng Pyun, of Cheltenham, frequents the 5th Street area for Korean Food. He told Action News he's not surprised by news of the robberies and recalled his own run-in with a robber.

"Two guys come and then gunpoint me... and then I give them my jacket," Pyun said.

Since the robbery, Phan said the doors to their family business are locked 24/7 and only their clients are allowed to come in.

At 1 p.m. on Friday, January 26, Philadelphia Police 35th District officers and the Greater Philadelphia Asian Social Service Center or GPASS are hosting an emergency meeting on the issue.

Anyone who recognizes the suspect is asked to call 911 or submit a tip at 215-686-8477.

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