Yogi’s Way owner living in fear after thieves raid venue

THE owner of Yogi’s Way in Stuart Park says he no longer feels safe working late after thieves broke in and stole about $1200 in cash overnight

Yogi's Way was broken into overnight. Owner Yogi Bhairab has been left with the cleanup bill after the thieves smashed in the front door. Photograph: Che Chorley

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THE owner of Yogi’s Way in Stuart Park says he no longer feels safe working late after thieves broke in and stole about $1200 in cash overnight.

Owner Yogi Bhairab said the thieves smashed through the front door of his Stuart Park restaurant and stole about $1200 in cash from the register at 4am on Wednesday.

He said the damage caused would cost about $800, but he was hesitant to claim it on his insurance because it would push the premium up.

“I’m worried about the costs, but there’s also a physiological side of this where you just don’t feel safe — you’re living in fear,” he said.

“I sometimes work in here till quite late, but now I’ll be scared of who might be roaming around outside and when a break-in might happen next.”

Mr Bhairab said the break-in was making him reconsider wanting to get a liquor licence.

“I was considering getting a liquor licence so I could sell alcohol here and potentially double my business, but I’m also really scared that could make me more of a target for thieves,” he said.

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“I’m so hesitant. I can’t imagine break-ins like this happening every week like some other businesses that sell alcohol.

“I wouldn’t be able to cope with it.”

The Hungry Jacks in Casuarina and Exotic North Indian Cuisine restaurant in Cullen Bay were also broken into overnight.

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