Greek authorities have identified an international gang of Chilean burglars accused of carrying out a major luxury watch theft from the home of a well-known shipowner in Athens.
According to investigators, the group stole 45 high-end watches valued at more than €1.5 million during a carefully planned break-in at the businessman’s villa.
The case was solved by Greece’s Organized Crime Division following an extensive investigation involving security footage analysis and the tracking of stolen items. Police say the suspects operated as part of what authorities describe as “criminal tourism,” traveling across Europe through the Schengen zone while posing as tourists.
Investigators believe the gang rented short-term apartments using third-party identities and used rental cars to move around the Athens area.
Authorities identified a 40-year-old inmate as the alleged leader of the network. Three other men, aged 26, 33 and 40, are believed to have formed the core operational group, while a 23-year-old woman allegedly played a supporting role.
How the Gang Operated
Police say the burglars targeted luxury villas and expensive homes, monitoring them for days before striking. Once they confirmed the owners were away, they entered the properties without leaving visible signs of forced entry.
The suspects allegedly used gloves and masks to avoid detection and often climbed walls or entered through balconies connected to neighboring buildings.
According to investigators, the group focused exclusively on high-value items such as luxury watches, jewelry and gold, avoiding cash or bulkier valuables.
The Athens Villa Break-In
In the case involving the shipowner’s residence, two members of the gang allegedly entered the villa by climbing over a wall and forcing open a balcony door.
The burglars reportedly stole 45 luxury watches, including rare handmade pieces created exclusively for the owner.
Authorities say the stolen goods were later sold through receivers who resold the watches as authentic second-hand luxury items. Investigators believe the imprisoned suspect coordinated the network’s operations and handled contacts related to the resale of the stolen goods.
Investigation Continues
Although no arrests have yet been made in connection with the case, police say all members of the gang have been identified and the investigation has effectively solved the burglary.
Authorities believe the group specialized in targeted break-ins at luxury homes in affluent areas, focusing on valuable items that could be easily resold on the international market.
