NORTHVILLE, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Northville Township residents in Wayne County have recently been added to the growing list of neighborhoods struck by organized groups of robbers striking homes, allegedly tied to South America.

How many home invasions are on record?

The Northville Township Police have documented five home invasions that are very similar to the home invasions in surrounding Michigan counties.

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“We are deeply concerned about the recent uptick in what appears to be organized crime activities targeting our neighborhoods,” stated Deputy Chief of Police Matthew MacKenzie. “We urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities immediately to law enforcement.”

How do the criminals operate?

The Northville Township Police Department described that the group uses a vehicle parked on a street near the home before breaking into a targeted residence, and usually use groups of three to four individuals. The group’s target valuable items such as “cash, jewelry and other high-end possessions” according to the agency.

Residents are reminded to take proactive measures to safeguard their homes according to the agency which recommends making sure doors and windows are locked, keeping lights on while people aren’t home, and not posting on social media when you are away on vacation.

The Northville Township Police Department encourages residents to promptly report suspicious individuals or activities and reach out with information to (248) 349-9400.

Oakland County Experiences Rise in High End Home Burglaries.

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard encouraged residents to hardwire their alarm systems.

“A lot of these homes that have been hit, the alarm was off,” he said. “If you have an alarm, use it. Try to get your devices hardwired, try to have redundancy of communication so that you have a hardwired phone, you have an internet phone, you have a cellular phone, you have a radio, backup because again you don’t know what’s going to be jammed with their jamming system.”

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Since the fall there have been more than 30 break ins of mostly high end homes in Oakland County.