This is the moment an American man disguised as a delivery driver robs a jewellery store in Vietnam before being caught just 14 hours later.

The robbery happened at a PNJ Jewellery Centre on Nui Thanh Street in Da Nang on the evening of 26th August.

Video shows the tall suspect in a green Grab delivery uniform, helmet and face mask smashing a glass display case and sweeping jewellery into his backpack.

Shoppers scream as bystanders try to hold the store door shut with an iron bar. The man forces it open and runs into the street before escaping on a motorbike.

Photo shows West Dale James, a 29-year-old American, being arrested by police in Da Nang, Vietnam. He is accused of robbing a jewellery store on Tuesday, 26 August, 2025. Note: Licensed photo. (Da Nang City Police/CEN)

Grab is a popular ride-hailing and delivery service in Southeast Asia, and its green uniforms and helmets are commonly seen on the streets.

Police said the suspect in the uniform was later identified as West Dale James, 29, from California.

James had entered Vietnam in June and rented an apartment on Pham Tu Street in An Hai Ward.

He had also rented a motorbike and removed its licence plate before the robbery.

American man robs jewelry store in Da Nang, Vietnam, Aug. 26, 2025. He has been identified as West Dale James, 29. Note: Photo is a screenshot from a video(CEN)

Officers launched a citywide manhunt after the crime, checking surveillance cameras, witnesses and rental records.

At 10:30am on 27 August, police stormed James's apartment when he tried to run but was subdued.

Investigators said they found stolen jewellery hidden above the bathroom ceiling along with other valuables.

Police said all the stolen goods, valued at around VND 830,000,000 (GBP 23,416), have since been recovered and returned to the store.

Authorities are continuing to investigate whether James committed other offences during his stay in Vietnam.

(Mike Leidig / newsX)