1. Phoenix Police arrest tourist burglary suspects trio
2. Phoenix Police detain tourist burglary suspects trio.

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Police Collaboration Leads to Arrests of South American Burglary Syndicate

A successful joint operation by Phoenix Police and multiple other law enforcement agencies has resulted in the arrest of several individuals involved in a string of high-end home burglaries across the Valley, including at least seven incidents in Ahwatukee.

The collaborative effort, which involved police from Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Chandler, Gilbert, and Peoria, as well as federal authorities, led to the arrest of three suspects on Feb. 16. The individuals arrested were identified as Sue Ellen Gutierrez Saez, 20; Johan Salvo Alacon, 21; and Manuel Eduardo Fuentes Gomez, 25.

These burglaries were part of a larger trend involving South American thieves who travel to the United States with the specific intent of targeting affluent neighbourhoods. The syndicate, based in Santiago, Chile, operates under the name South American Theft Groups and is known for their sophisticated tactics.

Referred to as “tourist burglars” due to their infiltration of the country through the State Department Tourist Waiver Program, these criminals often strike during dinnertime when homeowners are away at restaurants. They are well-equipped with tools to disable security alarms and typically wear all-black attire, face masks, and gloves to avoid detection.

Chilean Thieves Exploit Visa Waiver Program

In 2014, Chile was added to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, which allows citizens of participating countries to enter the United States without obtaining a visa. Unfortunately, this policy has inadvertently facilitated the entry of criminal elements who have targeted American homes, stealing valuable items such as jewellery, cash, and credit cards.

Reports indicate that in Scottsdale, these burglars have been known to target homes that back onto washes, allowing them to evade detection by neighbours. Residents in affluent communities like DC Ranch have been particularly affected by these crimes, prompting concerns among homeowners and calls for increased vigilance.

Similar incidents involving Chilean thieves have been reported in other states, such as Ohio and Michigan, where law enforcement agencies have formed task forces to address the issue. In Phoenix, police issued a warning to residents about the gang’s activities in various neighbourhoods, including Ahwatukee.

Arrest and Recovery of Stolen Property

Following the arrest of the three suspects in Phoenix, police recovered various burglary tools that had been discarded as the individuals attempted to flee the scene. The suspects, who were found to be in possession of fraudulent identification and overstayed visas, are believed to be part of a larger criminal network.

Despite the successful arrests, law enforcement officials caution that there may still be additional members of the South American Theft Groups at large. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities to aid in ongoing investigations.

Scottsdale Police Commander Christopher Watson praised the collaborative efforts that led to the arrests and underscored the importance of community support in combating these crimes. He emphasized the need for continued engagement and cooperation to ensure the apprehension of all those responsible for the burglaries.

Community Response and Prevention

In response to the recent burglaries, Phoenix Police have been engaging with local homeowners associations in Ahwatukee to address concerns and provide safety tips. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity and take precautions such as securing doors, windows, and garage doors before leaving home.

Additional measures recommended by law enforcement include the use of security and camera systems, maintaining well-lit surroundings, and forming neighbourhood watch groups. These strategies, along with timely reporting of crimes, can help prevent further incidents and support ongoing investigations into the activities of criminal syndicates.

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Phoenix Police arrest tourist burglars trio
Phoenix Police arrest tourist burglars trio in Phoenix
Phoenix Police arrest tourist burglars trio in Arizona.