San Mateo teenager arrested for allegedly trying to kidnap 3 women in recent weeks

San Mateo County, California – An 18-year-old San Mateo man has been arrested and faces multiple charges after allegedly attempting to kidnap three women across San Mateo County. According to San Mateo County Deputy District Attorney Shin-Mee Chang, the man—identified as Royhil Lakhan—is suspected of focusing on women who were strangers to him in different events occurring between October and early November.

The allegedly happenings included a 37-year-old lady in Burlingame, a 40-year-old woman in San Mateo, and a 24-year-old woman in Hillsborough. In one instance, investigators said Lakhan is accused of intending a se*ual assault in addition to attempted kidnapping. Another charges him with child maltreatment since one of the women was supposedly with her child during the attempted kidnapping.

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The arrest unfolded last Saturday, after an incident in Burlingame reportedly involving a BB gun that resembled a handgun. Lieutenant David Perna of Burlingame Police said Lakhan approached a woman driving a dark-colored SUV on Burlingame Avenue. He displayed the BB pistol as he got out of his car, scaring the woman who started screaming for help immediately. Witnesses saw him withdrawing to his car and accelerating away, hence this reaction apparently discouraged him.

Reported to the Burlingame Police Department at around 3:33 p.m. on November 2, the event spurred a quick reaction. Later that day on the 500 block of O’Neill Avenue, Burlingame and Belmont police found the suspect’s vehicle thanks in great part on witness statements including a partial license plate.

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Authorities call Lakhan’s behavior erratic and disruptive. Lieutenant Perna remarked, stressing the impromptu character of the attempted attacks, “It appears to be absolutely random.”

Currently, Lakhan is being held on a $500,000 bail and is expected to face further arraignment on November 14. Chang, the San Mateo County Deputy District Attorney, said he refrained from offering additional specifics since more information would surface as the matter moves forward before courts.

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The arrest has raised community concerns, with many in San Mateo County calling for increased vigilance and awareness.