International shoplifting syndicate which stole $1.2m from Sydney residents smashed

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.

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.

“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.”

“We are doing everything in our power to bring these no-good thieves to justice, but we are calling on the public to assist us in our investigation.

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

He also reminded the community to properly secure their homes and cars during the holiday season, and have someone check on the property if it’s left empty.

“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,” he added.

“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.”