Terrifying Robbery in El Alto: Store Owner Recounts Ordeal

El Alto Store Owner Recounts Terrifying Armed Robbery El Alto, Bolivia – A store owner in the Huayna Potosí area of El Alto experienced a terrifying armed robbery on the evening of June 4, 2025. Ramiro Machaca, the store owner, recounted the incident to Bolivia TV, describing how he was held at gunpoint by a group of robbers. "No lo mates," he recalled hearing before the robbers fled the scene. The robbery was captured on security cameras, showing several individuals ransacking the store. One of the robbers dropped their cell phone during the escape, providing police with a potential lead in their investigation. Marina Challco, Machaca's wife, described the incident as a moment of intense fear, noting that she only heard her son's screams as she was forced to exit the store. A local resident, Rosa Aruquipa, also expressed concern, stating the need for increased police presence in the area due to a rise in criminal activity. The incident highlights growing concerns about safety and security in the Huayna Potosí neighborhood of El Alto.