Anime Card Sellers Targeted in Armed Robberies

Chicago police warn of a suspect posing as a buyer to rob victims at gunpoint

Mar. 29, 2026 at 9:34pm

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A series of three armed robberies targeting anime trading card sellers have occurred in the Gage Park neighborhood of Chicago over the past two weeks. The suspect, described as a Latino man in his 20s or 30s with a beard and dark sunglasses, has been posing as an online buyer before robbing the victims at gunpoint when they arrive to complete the sale.

Why it matters

These types of targeted robberies against niche hobbyist communities can have a chilling effect, discouraging safe in-person transactions and eroding trust in online marketplaces. The Chicago Police Department is urging residents to take precautions when meeting strangers to complete sales initiated online.

The details

The three robberies took place in the 5200 or 5300 blocks of South Kedzie Avenue, with the first incident occurring on Tuesday, March 17th, and the remaining two happening on Saturday and Sunday, March 28th and 29th, during the mid-morning to early afternoon hours. In each case, the suspect displayed a handgun and took the anime trading cards from the victims.

  • The first robbery occurred on Tuesday, March 17th.
  • Two additional robberies took place on Saturday, March 28th and Sunday, March 29th.

The players

Chicago Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the series of armed robberies targeting anime trading card sellers.

Suspect

A Latino man in his 20s or 30s with a beard and dark sunglasses, standing 5'6" and weighing around 200 pounds, who has been posing as an online buyer to rob victims at gunpoint.

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What they’re saying

“Chicago Police are reminding residents that all CPD districts are open 24/7 to safely facilitate in person meet ups for sales initiated with strangers online.”

— Chicago Police Department

What’s next

Chicago police are actively investigating the robberies and urging residents to report any suspicious activity immediately. They are also encouraging people to use the 24/7 open police districts to safely complete in-person transactions initiated online.

The takeaway

These targeted robberies against anime trading card sellers highlight the importance of taking precautions when meeting strangers for online transactions, and the need for the community to work closely with law enforcement to address these types of crimes.