Chilean Crime Gang Steals Jewellery, Money in Distraction Scam

Four men have been arrested by New South Wales police on five counts each of stealing and working in a criminal group, after a spate of robberies of jewellery and cash across Sydney.

Detective Superintendent Murray Chapman fronted the media on September 18, stating that the Chilean men were on tourist visas and would appear in Liverpool Local Court.

The men, working in a group, allegedly lured victims into scams throughout central Sydney, Hornsby, Cabramatta and the Northern Beaches, robbing victims near jewellery shops and banks.

According to Chapman, the men disguised themselves in hats and glasses, communicated with each other through earpieces and mobile phones, and used ruses that victims had dropped cash or had a flat tyre. They also bumped into victims and spilled drinks on them, and asked for directions.

Police asked members of the public to be vigilant and lock car doors if approached by anyone seeming suspicious. Credit: NSW Police Force via Storyful