Witnesses not helping
much to solve gambling
robbery case

By Jaymes K. Song
Star-Bulletin

So many witnesses. So few answers.

Honolulu Police detectives, having a difficult time investigating last month's armed robbery of patrons of an illegal Chinatown gambling hall, are asking for the public's help.

More than 20 witnesses have been uncooperative and reluctant to talk to police, said investigators, possibly because they were participating in an illegal activity.

"It's not like they were at a fund-raising event at the governor's mansion," said Lt. Clifford Takesono, head of the robbery detail. "The nature of the activity makes them shy."

On Dec. 9, four armed gunmen wearing ski masks entered the gambling hall at 1153 Maunakea St. about 6 p.m., forced the gamblers to the floor, then robbed them of money and jewelry. Police are not disclosing the amount taken.

A 46-year-old woman, shot twice in the buttocks before the suspects fled, was treated and released at Queen's Hospital.

Most of the witnesses ran away when police arrived, and the ones who stayed have not been very cooperative, police said. No gambling-related arrests were made.

But witnesses did identify two men -- Alifeleti Taufa, 22, and Sidney F. Tafokitau, 19 -- through a photo lineup as possible suspects.

Composite drawings of the other two suspects also have been created.

The suspects could have possibly fled Honolulu, police said, since their car was found in a parking garage at the Honolulu Airport last month. The car was registered to a rental car business.

Both Taufa and Tafokitau have black hair and a tan complexion. Taufa is 5 feet 9 inches tall, 180 pounds with a medium build. Tafokitau is 6 feet tall, 195 pounds with a medium build.

The first unidentified suspect is described as in his mid-30s to early-40s. He has light brown, curly, neck-length hair and a light brown mustache. He is about 5 feet 9 inches tall, about 150 to 170 pounds with a stocky build. The second unidentified suspect is in his 20s with black hair and mustache. He is about 6 feet tall, 210 to 225 pounds with a muscular build.

The suspects are considered armed and extremely dangerous. Anyone with information can call 911 or CrimeStoppers at 955-8300.