Police arrest five over 19 village house burglaries
On.cc · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Police said a five-person burglary network linked to 19 village house break-ins in Tuen Mun, Yuen Long and Tai Po was disrupted in raids early on August 8. Investigators alleged the group targeted secluded homes near hillsides with weak security, stealing cash, jewellery and gold ornaments over at least three months.
Key Points
- Police said the 19 reported village house burglaries caused total losses of about HK$2.1 million, with the worst single case involving roughly HK$320,000 in property.
- Investigators identified a three-man core group, led by a 53-year-old local man who allegedly drove two mainland Chinese men to scout targets and commit offences.
- The two mainland suspects were believed to have entered Hong Kong illegally, reportedly by sea, and one was said to be linked to the notorious Wei family burglary gang.
- Officers arrested two suspected illegal immigrants and a mainland woman holding a two-way permit in a hut in Fu Tei, Tuen Mun, seizing burglary tools and suspected clothing worn during offences.
- Police also arrested the alleged ringleader and his girlfriend in a village house in Yeung Siu Hang Tsuen, Tuen Mun, recovering some suspected stolen property and suspected drug-taking paraphernalia.
Why It Matters
The case points to continuing risks for residents of outlying village houses, especially when homes are left unlocked or security is weak during dinner hours or travel periods. Police said burglary carries a maximum sentence of 14 years' imprisonment and pledged intelligence-led enforcement using technology to protect life and property.