By: Richard L. Smith
A group of Colombian nationals accused of operating a sophisticated burglary ring targeting Asian business owners across multiple states is now facing federal charges, according to Essex County officials.
The investigation began in December, when Cedar Grove Police launched a probe into a series of residential burglaries in the area. 
Working in collaboration with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, investigators were eventually able to track down and arrest six suspects believed to be members of a larger South American theft crew.
Authorities said the group was connected to a broader criminal network responsible for break-ins across NJ, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina.
The suspects were taken into custody earlier this year as they attempted to burglarize a home in the upscale Bergen County community of Allendale.
During the arrests, officials seized three vehicles used in the operation.
Police said the crew employed various electronic tools—Wi-Fi jammers, GPS tracking devices, and police scanners—to evade detection and carry out their crimes with precision.
The targeted victims were largely Asian business owners, and the thefts resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars in losses, investigators confirmed.
While the names of the six arrested individuals have not been made public, they are currently being held on federal charges.
An additional six individuals tied to the larger burglary ring were apprehended by other agencies in connection with the investigation. 
Details surrounding their arrests and charges have not yet been released.
The case remains under active investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies across state lines.