Four Colombians arrested for burglary

SINGAPORE: Police have cracked what’s believed to be one of the largest housebreaking cases in recent years.

More than S$300,000 worth of cash, jewelleries and valuables were recovered with the arrest of four Colombians who stole from a semi—detached home along Upper Serangoon Road.

They are 43—year—old Luis Carlos Carrillo Ramirez, 42—year—old Hernandez Beltran Edwin Neil, 34—year—old Sarmiento Cardona Alvaro and 33—year—old Fernandez Zamora Edwin.

The quartet had climbed over the low wall surrounding the semi—detached home.

They then used a screwdriver to force open the kitchen window and gained entry.

The loot includes cash, jewellery and gold bars.

Two of the suspects were arrested on 13 June after they were seen behaving suspiciously at the back alley between Recreation Road and Joon Hiang Road.

Police found screwdrivers, mallets and clamps in one of the suspects’ bag.

Preliminary investigations show that the four are believed to be involved in at least three other break—ins at private estates in Ang Mo Kio and Yio Chu Kang.

Police said since the beginning of June, several reports of break—ins were reported at private homes island—wide.

Victims would discover that their homes had been broken into and ransacked after they return home from work or dinner.

In these cases, the rear doors and gates to the houses were forced opened.

The four Colombians have been charged in court on Friday.

If convicted of housebreaking and theft, they face a jail term of up to 14 years.

Mark Liew, senior investigation officer, Ang Mo Kio Police Division, said: "Police would like to advise the members of public on the following crime prevention measures. To secure your homes with padlocks and grilles.

To install CCTV and alarm system where possible. In one of the cases, the suspect believed to have abandoned the plan when the alarm of the home went off."

—CNA/ac/ck