Cops make breakthrough in break-ins

RIO CLARO police believe they have made a breakthrough in a series of break-ins within the past six months, in which over $80,000 worth of items were stolen, following the arrest of two suspects on Wednesday. The men, aged 22 and 44, were arrested around 11 am after police intercepted a white Nissan Sentra along Cunapo Main Road, and discovered over $10,000 worth of electronic appliances in the car. Unable to give a valid explanation as to how the items came in their possession, the men were arrested and taken to the Rio Claro Police Station.

While there, a woman entered the station and reported that her home was broken into sometime between 8 pm on Tuesday and 5 am yesterday and electronic appliances stolen. The woman positively identified the items found in the suspects’ car as belonging to her. Following more information, a party of officers conducted raids at several houses in Rio Claro and Biche and recovered thousands of dollars worth of stolen items. The total figure of items recovered had not yet been tallied up to late yesterday since searches were still being conducted. Investigators warned that persons found with stolen items would be charged with receiving stolen articles. The suspects were expected to be placed on several identification parades yesterday before charges were laid against them. Investigations are continuing.