REXBURG Local restaurant owners are in shock after losing more than $150,000 worth of their possessions in a lunchtime home invasion.
The owners of the Original Thai Restaurant in Rexburg, Kaew Jai Fung and her brother Nai Fung, claim that on June 25, their home was broken into and destroyed, depriving them of $150,000 worth of their most prized possessions.
According to Kaew Jai Fung, we lost everything. Cash, diamonds, gold jewelry, and luxuries.
A few goods that were taken. | Image courtesy of Kaew Jai Fung
The Fungs claim that the Valina Lane burglary occurred while they were working at the restaurant, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Their house was in ruins and their glass back door had been broken in when they got home after closing.
According to Kaew, the robbers left computers, iPads, and cell phones behind and only grabbed non-electronic stuff. Rather, they stole more than 70 items, including gold pendants, religious medallions, suitcases, handbags, and Rolex watches.
Kaew says, “We never imagined (this) would happen.” They stole the pocketbook or wallets and scattered our papers on the ground. Our passports, socials, and other documents were scattered around the floor.
The Fungs claim that although their front doorbell cameras were installed, the back of their house, where the intruders broke in, was not.
Kaew tells EastIdahoNews.com that she thinks the white SUV she observed several times in the week prior to the break-in may have been involved in the crime.
“I saw a random car about three times the week before we were robbed, but I can’t point (out) that it’s that car,” Kaew explains. And I spotted the same car when I stepped outside to light a cigarette at one in the morning. And I simply assumed that someone might have gotten lost.
The twins advise residents of Rexburg to be on guard and to regularly lock their doors and vehicles.
Kaew explains, “I just want to warn the community that everything is not safe as we thought.” The burglars were aware of their actions.
The restaurant has been run by the Fungs for almost 17 years. As they get over the loss, they still maintain they don’t want donations. Rather, they extend an invitation to the public to patronize their enterprise.
You know, we put in a lot of effort and attempt to earn money on our own. Kaew says. Though I would prefer not to accept donations, I do appreciate it if you would like to. Come enjoy our cuisine and show your support by ordering takeout or dining in.
The restaurant’s website, Facebook page, and menu/online order are all accessible.
The house following the break-in | The Original Thai Restaurant in Rexburg Image courtesy of Justin Ouellette via Google
According to Assistant Police Chief Gary Hagen of Rexburg, the case is still under investigation, but no specifics will be made public just yet.
Should you know anything about this break-in, please contact dispatch by phone at (208) 372-5001.
