Rare $2,000 cat stolen from LA barbershop in brazen smash and grab

LOS ANGELES, CA — A South Los Angeles barbershop owner is pleading for the safe return of his beloved pet, a rare Savannah cat valued at $2,000, after thieves broke into the business in a smash-and-grab heist.

The incident, which took place in early December, has left the shop owner and local residents shocked by the brazen nature of the crime. Surveillance footage captured the moment suspects shattered the glass storefront of the barbershop, gaining rapid entry to the premises.

While the thieves targeted cash and valuable styling equipment, they also stole the owner's rare pet cat, Simba, a Savannah cat known for its striking spotted coat and tall ears. The cat was kept in a secure enclosure inside the shop, which the suspects hauled out during the break-in.

"They took my tools, they took my money, but what hurts the most is that they took my cat. Simba is part of the family," said the distraught business owner.

Savannah cats are a hybrid breed, cross-bred between a domestic cat and a serval, a medium-sized, large-eared wild African cat. Due to their exotic appearance and rare lineage, these cats can fetch thousands of dollars on the black market.

Police Appeal for Information

The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the burglary and has released descriptions of the suspects involved. Community members are being asked to keep an eye out for anyone attempting to sell or house a Savannah cat matching Simba's description.