20 Arrested in Illegal Alien Burglary Ring Targeting Houston, Other Areas [WATCH]

More than 60 high-end homes across the Houston area have been targeted in a large-scale burglary spree authorities say is tied to a South American theft ring using signal jammers and counter-surveillance tactics to avoid detection.

West University Place Police Chief Gary Ratliff confirmed to Fox News Digital that the organized crime network, known as the South American Theft Group, has been connected to multiple break-ins in West University Place, nearby counties and other states.

Concern over the incidents drew a large turnout at a public safety meeting Wednesday night in West University Place, where residents heard details about the group’s operations and the expanding scope of the investigation.

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“It was shocking,” resident Bill Jones told FOX 26 in Houston.

“People from South America terrorizing Americans. That’s pretty scary and unfortunate. I’m really surprised no one has gotten hurt.”

Police said seven of the burglaries occurred within West University Place alone.

Investigators have identified a consistent pattern in the cases.

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According to authorities, suspects typically strike between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., focusing on second-story windows at the rear of homes.

Investigators said the burglars use ladders or patio furniture to gain access before breaking glass or prying windows open with screwdrivers.

Police allege the suspects reposition security cameras and use signal jammers to interfere with alarm systems and Wi-Fi networks.

Stolen property is reportedly carried away in pillowcases and backpacks.

The primary targets are high-value items, including designer purses and jewelry.

In at least one case, residents were inside the home when burglars entered, though no confrontation occurred.

Ratliff told residents that since January 2025, four break-ins and three attempted break-ins have been reported in West University Place that appear consistent with the theft group’s methods.

Authorities also indicated that similar investigations are underway in California, Florida, Wisconsin and New York.

Law enforcement officials believe the Houston-area incidents may be part of a broader nationwide operation tied to the same criminal organization.

“Most of these folks, they’re pretty intelligent,” Ratliff said.

“They’re using burner phones, they’re using other information that makes it very difficult to follow.”

Investigators have made at least one arrest connected to the spree.

Last year, officers arrested Chilean national Ignacio Castillo Contreras in connection with a burglary in which jewelry was stolen.

Police have also identified Christian Mauricio Rubio Pizarro as a person of interest in the ongoing investigation, though no charges have been filed against him related to the burglaries.

Authorities said he is currently facing unrelated charges in Houston and remains jailed on an immigration hold.

Law enforcement officials described the case as active and ongoing. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and work to prevent additional burglaries in the community.

The pattern of activity, along with the use of technology to disable security systems and avoid detection, has raised concerns among residents in West University Place and surrounding areas.

Police have urged homeowners to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activity promptly as authorities continue efforts to disrupt the group’s operations.

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