Game shops ramp up security as Pokémon card heists spread across Australia
Retailers across Australia are boosting security after thieves stole thousands in rare Pokémon cards.
Shop owners are investing in security after targeted break-ins. Benjamin Hill's collectables store in Blair Athol, South Australia was hit in early September when a thief broke through the ceiling and stole almost $20,000 in Pokémon and other trading cards.
A 47-year-old man was arrested and charged. Shop owners are installing bollards, roller shutters, CCTV and fog alarms, with one Adelaide owner spending about $20,000.
Pokémon cards attract thieves because some rare cards are worth millions, are untraceable and easy to resell. Prices have soared globally.
Ordinary boxes worth $100 to $200 now sell for $8,000. The cards have been outperforming Bitcoin and the S&P 500 on markets.
- $20,000
- Value stolen from Hill's store
- $20,000
- Security upgrade cost
- 47 years old
- Suspect's age
- $100 to $200
- Original box price range
Why it mattersCollectors and casual buyers face harder access to stock and higher prices as thieves target the booming card market, and retailers face significant security costs.
AustraliaAustralian game shops in multiple states are now targets, raising prices for local collectors and forcing retailers to spend tens of thousands on security.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
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