*See Update
A heartbroken cat owner is hoping that the New York Police Department can capture the catnapper that nabbed his gray kitty, Boka, from his bodega.
Abdulmajeed Albahri, the owner of Park Slope’s Green Olives Deli & Grill, misses the friendly kitten that keeps him company and delights customers in the Brooklyn neighborhood.
“The cat was so special … when the cat is here, he brings life to the store,” said Albahri.
“Sometimes when it’s not that busy, I used to play with him, make videos of him throughout my shift and also the customers used to come to play with the cat, you know, taking pictures with him, so it was fun for us as we work in the store and for the customers, too.”
Surveillance footage from the store shows that a man in khakis, a white shirt and blue hat was hanging around on the street in front of the store on Seventh Avenue. The man is clearly seen grabbing Boka and walking off.
Boka is accustomed to taking walks around the block, so the owner didn’t initially realize that Boka was missing. But when Boka didn’t return, Albahri checked the security video and saw that the cat had been stolen.
Albahri hopes that Boka will be spotted and returned safely. Referring to the man on video, he said, “He doesn’t look like someone who cares about cats.”
The NYPD confirmed Thursday a report has been filed and said no arrests have been made and the investigation remains ongoing.
Videos and photos of the alleged thief and Boka are circulating on social media and online.
*UPDATE: Boka was found unharmed and returned to her owner this weekend.