Cigarettes Cheaper, a family-owned small business located in San Francisco’s Richmond District since 2003, is facing the possibility of closure after being ransacked for the fourth time. The store’s owner, Bashir, expressed frustration over the repeated break-ins, which have been occurring since 2020. He emphasized that the business is simply trying to provide for their family and maintain their livelihood.
Following the most recent break-in, police officers observed possible suspects entering cars and fleeing the scene, with one vehicle colliding with a marked police vehicle in the process. Although a firearm and potential stolen merchandise were discovered in one of the vehicles, no arrests were made. The break-ins have resulted in significant financial losses for the business, with stolen items such as boxes of cigarettes and damage to the storefront estimated to cost tens of thousands of dollars.
In response to the break-ins, the store has taken precautions such as installing interior fencing. However, the thieves used a car to ram through the fencing, causing further damage. Bashir expressed concern about the lack of insurance coverage for such incidents, noting that insurance companies have been hesitant to provide coverage due to the high risk involved in California. As a result, the business faces financial challenges in recovering from the losses suffered in the break-ins.
The ongoing security concerns and financial strain have led Bashir to contemplate shutting down the business entirely. He highlighted the difficulties of operating a small business in a high-cost environment, especially when faced with recurring criminal activity that threatens the livelihood of the business and its employees. Despite efforts to secure the store and seek insurance coverage, the business continues to face challenges that may ultimately force them to close their doors for good.