In a shocking case that has gripped the community a Chinese national residing in the country became the victim of a highprofile robbery involving a staggering sum of nearly 20 million in cash and valuables What has left many even more astounded is the identity of the mastermind behind the crime the familys trusted domestic worker .
The incident unfolded earlier this week in an upscale neighborhood where the Chinese national identified as Mr Li Wei name changed for privacy lives with his family According to police reports the victim had been residing in the country for several years and was engaged in various business ventures including trading and real estate The family employed several household staff including the accused domestic worker who had been with the family for more than three years .
The domestic worker allegedly
On the day of the robbery the domestic worker allegedly orchestrated the entire theft while the family was away attending a social event Initial investigations revealed that the suspect had carefully planned the crime studying the households routines and identifying security weaknesses .
The domestic worker identified by police as Maria Santos name changed for legal reasons reportedly manipulated other accomplices into joining her in the heist She had built trust with the family over the years and had access to every part of the house including the room where the large sum of money and valuables were stored .
Security footage retrieved
Security footage retrieved from nearby homes and the property itself shows multiple individuals entering the house late at night It is believed that Maria had provided them with the keys and the alarm codes which allowed them to bypass the security system without raising suspicion .
When the family returned home they discovered the house ransacked and immediately alerted the police Jewelry cash and other luxury items amounting to nearly 20 million in total were missing Authorities launched an investigation and quickly identified Maria as a person of interest due to her sudden disappearance after the incident .
Further investigation led police to a hideout where Maria and her accomplices were allegedly splitting the loot Officers recovered a significant portion of the stolen goods and arrested several suspects including Maria herself .
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Robbery She told authorities
During questioning Maria reportedly confessed to masterminding the robbery She told authorities that she had been planning the heist for months and decided to execute it after learning that the family would be away for several hours She also admitted to recruiting accomplices from her hometown promising them large shares of the stolen wealth
Maria cited financial desperation as the main reason behind her actions She claimed that mounting debts and the inability to support her family back home pushed her to commit the crime However police officials stated that regardless of motive her betrayal of the familys trust was particularly disturbing .
background checks and security measures
This case highlights the dangers of misplaced trust and the importance of rigorous background checks and security measures said Police Chief Inspector Ramon Velasquez during a press briefing We urge all households especially those who employ domestic staff to take extra precautions and remain vigilant .
Authorities are now in the process of recovering the remaining stolen items and cash Additional suspects are still at large and manhunt operations are ongoing .
Social media
The case has sparked widespread discussion on social media with many expressing outrage over the domestic workers actions Others however have pointed out the broader issues of poverty and labor exploitation that sometimes drive individuals to desperate measures .
As the investigation continues the family has expressed gratitude to the police for their swift action and hopes that justice will be served Meanwhile authorities are also considering legal steps against the accomplices and looking into whether the stolen funds were intended for laundering or other illicit activities .
This incident serves as a stark reminder to all residents to remain cautious and proactive in safeguarding their homes and assets regardless of how much trust has been built over time .