Hong Kong police arrest six over suspected burglary network

Hong Kong police have arrested six people over a suspected burglary syndicate linked to at least 25 break-ins across the city in recent weeks. The arrests followed an operation on Friday based on a review of surveillance footage, police said. The suspects, aged between 31 and 45, include five mainland Chinese and one local resident.

Three of the mainland suspects are alleged to be illegal immigrants. Acting chief inspector Ng See-hin of the New Territories North Regional Crime Unit said another mainland couple were believed to have organised the group. They had entered Hong Kong on two-way permits, while the local suspect allegedly acted as the driver.

Police said the syndicate had operated since late August and was connected to burglaries in Yuen Long, Tuen Mun, Sheung Shui, Tai Po, Sai Kung, Ma On Shan and Aberdeen. The targeted properties included village houses and upscale homes. Ng said the group appeared to take advantage of long holidays and major festivals, when residents were more likely to be away or eating out.

Police allege that the organisers arranged for the mainland men to enter Hong Kong illegally and recruited a driver to take them between target areas and their hideout. The suspects allegedly targeted homes in quiet or secluded locations with weak security. Police said they forced open doors and windows, or entered through unlocked openings, to steal gold jewellery, cash, watches and other valuables.

Reported losses exceeded HK$3.6 million, with the largest single loss estimated at about HK$600,000 at a property in Aberdeen. Police said some cash, jewellery and handbags had been recovered, with a total value of about HK$600,000. The six remained in detention for questioning on Saturday afternoon.

Ng urged residents to lock doors and windows before leaving and avoid keeping large amounts of cash or valuables at home. Burglary carries a maximum penalty of 14 years’ imprisonment under Hong Kong’s Theft Ordinance.