San Francisco Police Department Makes Arrest in Burglary Series 22-113
On June 14, 2022, at approximately 6:45 pm, San Francisco Police Officers assigned to Bayview Station responded to the 2300 block of 3rd Street on a report of a burglary. Officers met with the victim whole told officers an unknown suspect broke into the business, while it was closed, and stole a safe. The suspect later returned with two additional suspects and stole other items, including a cash register.
On July 31, 2022, at approximately 7:04 am, San Francisco Police Officers assigned to Park Station responded to the 1400 block of Haight Street on a report of a burglary. Officer met with the victim who told officers that an unknown suspect broke into the business, while it was closed, and stole a cash register and lottery tickets.
On August 4, 2022, at approximately 2:15 am, San Francisco Police Officers assigned to Central Station were flagged down on the 600 block of grant regarding a possible burglary in progress. When officers arrived on scene, the unknown suspect was gone. Officers spoke with the owner of the business and determined that the suspect had broken into the business, while it was closed, and stolen a cash register.
Investigators from the San Francisco Police Department Burglary Detail led the investigations of these three incidents and obtained security camera surveillance from all three incidents. Investigators were able to identify the suspect from all three incidents as 28-year-old San Francisco resident Molimau Masaniai. Investigators developed probable cause, and on August 18, 2022, arrested Masaniai on the 100 block of Turk Street. Investigators also conducted a search warrant on Masaniai’s residence at that time.
Masaniai was booked into custody at San Francisco County Jail on three counts of burglary (459 PC), three counts of vandalism (594(a)(2) PC, and one count of possession of burglary tools (466 PC).
While an arrest has been made, this remains an open and active investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the SFPD Tip Line at 1-415-575-4444 or Text a Tip to TIP411 and begin the text message with SFPD. You may remain anonymous.
SFPD Case Numbers: 220466266, 220517405, 220507882