Global burglary syndicate steals $1.2m across Sydney

Five men and three women, all Chilean nationals, have been charged with allegedly stealing more than a million dollars worth of designer goods and luxury items from homes across Sydney and sending the ill-gotten gains abroad.

Eight people have been charged with allegedly stealing more than a million dollars worth of luxury items from homes across Sydney and sending the ill-gotten gains abroad.

The five men and three women, all Chilean nationals, were arrested over the past month following an investigation into 80 aggravated break-ins across Sydney during September and October.

Police say the men and women broke into homes across the city, including in Vaucluse, Rose Bay, Five Dock, and Castle Hill, and stole $1.2 million worth of jewellery and luxury items, and cash.

Police said $1.2 million worth of luxury items were stolen from homes across Sydney. Picture: NSW Police

Cash recovered by detectives from Strike Force Merengue.

It’s also alleged they stole luxury items from designer stores across Sydney.

All the items and cash were shipped to their home country and investigators have been working with Chilean authorities to seize packages believed to contain the stolen items.

n November 2018, detectives from the State Crime Command’s Robbery and Serious Crime Squad established Strike Force Merengue to investigate 80 aggravated break-ins across Sydney throughout September and October.

Five men and three women, all Chilean

nationals, were arrested over the past month.

Jewllery items seized by strike force detectives. Pictures: NSW Police

Police say the men and women broke

into homes across the city and suburbs.

Stolen jewellery targeted by the gang

in more than 80 aggravated break-ins.

A selection of designer clothing seized by Strike Force detectives. Picture: NSW POlice

“This has been a sophisticated and meticulous investigation; spanning not just across Australia but across the Pacific Ocean,” Detective Superintendent Daniel Doherty said.

“We want to hear from anyone who may have information that can assist us in dismantling this syndicate.”

“While our detectives are continuing to track down those involved, we remind the community to ensure that their doors and windows are securely locked when no one is at home.

“If you are going on holidays and your home is empty, we ask that you have a trusted family member or friend or neighbour stop by to see that the house has not been disturbed.

“Unsavoury characters will be on the lookout to break in and steal some of your new Christmas presents and will be checking for empty and unlocked homes.

“If you see something or someone suspicious in your neighbourhood, we urge you to contact police.”

Originally published as Global burglary syndicate steals $1.2m across Sydney