Business owners in Sauganash, North Mayfair, and Edison Park are on high alert after a series of commercial burglaries struck the neighborhoods. As reported by the Chicago Police Department, multiple businesses in the 16th (Jefferson Park) and 17th (Albany Park) Districts have been the targets of a group of unknown offenders who have been smashing their way into establishments and making off with cash register drawers filled with money.
The Chicago Police Department's notice gives a rundown of the incidents, listing several occurrences on March 11 and March 27, pinpointing the early hours as the time frame of these brazen acts. The crew of burglars, described as four to five males wearing masks, dark clothing, and gloves, were seen driving either a red Kia Sportage or a black Hyundai Elantra in their spree of theft.
Details about the crimes reveal a disturbing pattern: Businesses are forcibly entered by breaking a window or shattering the front glass door. Driving a red Kia Sportage or a black Hyundai Elantra, the offenders have managed to repeatedly strike, leaving local businesses to count their losses. The burglars' loot consistently consists of the cash register drawers.
The police are urging caution and offering prevention advice. "Immediately report suspicious activity" is the advice given to the public. The police also suggest that businesses should alert their neighbors, make sure surveillance cameras are in good working order, and avoid confrontations with the criminals. If anyone witnesses an incident, they are encouraged to pass on their contact info rather than engage with the culprits.
