Seven South American Gang Members Arrested in Los Angeles Area for Home Invasion Burglaries

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced the arrests of seven South American gang members, including four Colombian nationals, during a press conference Wednesday. Officials described a series of home invasion burglaries that targeted residents across the Los Angeles area.

Chilean national Kevin Diaz, 22, faces 18 felony charges after allegedly attempting to rob a home on May 4 while a family of four was inside the Rexford Drive residence. The resident heard a loud crash, saw a man on surveillance video smashing through the back door, and called 911 after locking himself in a bathroom.

When police arrived, Diaz was still inside the home and fled on foot before officers arrested him. Investigators later linked Diaz to 17 other burglaries dating back to January 2025. Diaz faces up to 26 years in prison and is believed to be part of a burglary ring targeting residents in the Los Angeles area.

Angeles police and sheriff's officials presented evidence of sophisticated tactics used by the suspects. Officials displayed hidden cameras disguised as greenery and a device described as a jammer used to disrupt camera systems and Wi-Fi connections.

Representatives from Ventura County police and sheriff's departments also attended the press conference. Three additional South American men, Owen Rivera Chacon, 26, Christopher Sanchez, 26, and Edison Bioka, 27, were arrested after a home invasion on the 24000 block of Mathew Street in Newhall.

Detectives recovered U.S. currency, jewelry, a luxury handbag, a Wi-Fi jamming device, gloves, and other burglary tools during that investigation.

Angeles police officials stated that many of the individuals enter the United States on 90-day tourist visas and leave the country if caught. Officials said the groups operate as international enterprises and use advanced equipment during burglaries.

District Attorney Nathan Hochman said anyone who comes to the area to commit burglaries and traumatize families will spend time in jails and prisons.