Five arrested after Dh20 million Dubai villa heist

A gang of thieves cracked a safe before making away with a lucrative haul of gold, diamonds and watches

US gold futures gained 0.9 per cent to $1,687.80 per ounce. Bloomberg

Five people have been arrested in connection with a Dh20 million heist at a Dubai villa.

Thieves cracked a safe and snatched a haul of diamonds, gold and luxury watches from the property in Emirates Hills.

Police believe the raid in the affluent gated community was carried out by a team of "professional burglars".

It was not disclosed when the crime took place.

Brigadier Jamal Al Jallaf, director of Dubai police’s criminal investigation department, said four men and one woman were arrested within 48 hours of the lucrative theft.

The stolen items were also recovered.

"The victim reported his wife waking up to find their safe unlocked and emptied from all their diamonds, gold, and expensive watches," he said.
"The crime was committed by professional burglars."

Officers identified the suspects after discovering the stolen goods were in the process of being sold and the gang were set to leave the country.

"Dubai police officers raided the thieves' hideouts, thwarting their plans to flee the country," said Brig Al Jallaf.

The senior police officer said the occupant had left their home unsecured - a mistake seized upon by opportunistic offenders.

“Negligence in securing his home against thefts was the main reason behind this crime,” he said.

He called on the public to ensure they have security measures in place to protect their homes.

“Despite all direct and indirect awareness campaigns on how to secure valuables, and on the necessary precautions that must be taken to secure houses, some people still ignore the issues and expose themselves and their possessions to risk,” he said.