Police suspect organized gang targeting safes; Sussex urged to be cautious following break-ins

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been cautioned to heighten their security measures in the wake of a burglary spree in their neighborhood. U.S. police suspect that an organized gang, focusing on the theft of safes, is responsible for the break-ins. The most recent burglary, which took place on Wednesday, was situated a mere five minutes’ drive from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s £12 million Montecito mansion in California.

At the time of the burglary, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were in Jamaica for the film premiere of “Bob Marley: One Love.” Despite their absence, the Montecito Association issued a neighborhood-wide alert providing tips on home security. The alert included a message from Santa Barbara County Sheriff officer Rachel Zick, outlining the modus operandi of the criminals.

The alert stated, “In the past week, deputies have taken several burglary reports with notable similarities in the resident layouts, times of occurrence, and items taken. In these burglaries, criminals target unoccupied residences that back up to open spaces. Investigators have noted most of these crimes occur between 6 pm and 10 pm. The suspect(s) are targeting safes.”

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex reside in Montecito, an affluent town in Santa Barbara. Their £12 million mansion has been the subject of security concerns in the past. In July 2022, it was reported that the property had experienced six security alerts in 14 months, including two intruder scares that prompted police responses.

These recent security incidents have heightened concerns for the safety of the royal couple and their two children, Archie and Lilibet. The Montecito Association’s alert aims to ensure that residents are well-informed about potential threats and are proactive in implementing security measures.

Notably, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have faced criticism for their choice to attend the film premiere in Jamaica instead of visiting the UK when Princess Kate and King Charles were hospitalized. Some deemed the decision “insensitive.” However, an insider close to the couple revealed that they were personally invited to the premiere by Paramount boss Brian Robbins.

As the burglary spree continues, attention is likely to focus on the security arrangements in place for high-profile figures like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and the broader issue of safety in affluent neighborhoods.