Police warn of Eastern European theft ring operating in Torrance

TORRANCE — Police in Torrance on Wednesday warned residents of theft rings from Eastern Europe targeting homes for burglaries and committing all manner of scams.

The culprits are suspected in various fraud cases, according to Lt. Fareed Ahmad, public information officer with the Torrance Police Department.

“These groups often employ sophisticated techniques to target individuals and businesses, resulting in significant financial losses,” the lieutenant said in a news release. “As part of our commitment to community safety, we urge community members to stay informed and vigilant.”

The groups are part of Eastern European organized crime outfits that perpetrate phishing scams, capers involving fake lottery wins and even investment fraud involving impersonations as legitimate officials, Ahmad said.

They also pick people’s pockets and pull off distraction thefts and home burglaries, “often executed with precision and planning in public places,” according to Ahmad, who says the thieves may work in teams, with one person distracting the victim while another steals their belongings.

The bad actors allegedly also engage in cybercrime through online scams, malware, data breaches and social engineering.

Residents were asked to exercise extreme caution about sharing sensitive information, including Social Security numbers or bank details. Unsolicited emails or calls claiming to be from banks or government agencies can be authenticated by contacting the entity directly using known contact information.

Other tips shared by Ahmed: Be aware of your surroundings when out in public, be mindful of your belongings, keep bags close and avoid displaying valuables.

Last month, Torrance police separately warned that South American theft groups were operating in the area.

Suspicious activity should be reported to the Torrance Police Department immediately at 310-328-3456.