Help Sought in Finding Restaurateur : Crime: Woman was apparently abducted with day’s receipts from Monterey Park business.

Police were seeking the public’s help Tuesday in finding a Monterey Park businesswoman who was allegedly kidnaped by a man who commandeered her van as she left her restaurant with the day’s receipts.

Moy Ly, 41, closed the First Chaur Jou Seafood Restaurant on Saturday night at about 11:30 p.m. and went to the parking lot escorted by several employees, said Monterey Park Police Capt. Jim Strait. Police said she was carrying about $10,000 in cash.

Employees said they saw Ly pulling out of the restaurant’s parking lot in her white 1992 Mazda van and then heard cries for help.

When they looked in the van, they saw Ly struggling with a man, Strait said. An employee tried to run to her aid, but the van suddenly lurched out of the parking lot and sped northbound on Chandler Avenue, Strait said.

Ly has not been heard from since. Her family has not received a demand for ransom. Her van was still missing.

“We really need the public’s help on this,” said Lt. Chuck Montoya. He said investigators believe Ly was kidnaped by someone familiar with her business routine.

A Chinese immigrant who owned two other restaurants in Monterey Park, Ly often stayed at the establishments until closing, then left with the day’s receipts.

On Tuesday, investigators canvassed the neighborhood near the restaurant and circulated Ly’s picture. Police said they were investigating tips that they received by phone.

They asked that anyone with information about Ly call (818) 307-1200.