Moment California cops swoop on South American burglary crew behind mass luxury home raids

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Six South Americans including several minors were arrested Tuesday in connection with a series of home burglaries that have terrorized California neighborhoods over the past year.  

Andres Zarate, 32, Darlyn Alejandra Acosta Serrano, 32, and four other suspects identified as 17-year-old minors were booked on burglary and conspiracy charges, according to the Irvine Police Department. 

It’s not clear if the crew was operating as its own burglary ring or if they were part of a larger network, the LA Times reported. 

“We are dedicated to the safety of our community,” Police Chief Michael Kent said in a statement.

“This successful investigation sends a clear message to all that crime will not be tolerated here. We have the technology, resources, and expertise to find those who commit crimes in Irvine and ensure they are held accountable.”

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Police said through extensive surveillance and evidence gathering they were able to identify the suspects that led to arrests across the state, including Bellflower, Huntington Beach, and Los Angeles. 

The crew is responsible for more than 10 residential burglaries in neighborhoods throughout Irvine, police said, but it’s unclear if they are part of the burglary tourism trend where foreign nationals travel to the US to break-in to homes. 

In 2024, Chilean national targeted homes in the Pacific Palisades and Easy Hollywood while multiple Colombians were arrested in Burbank last year, the Times reported. 

Detectives are continue to investigate to determine if they are linked to any additional crimes.