Daring burglar sneaks into Yangpu high-rise apartments

By Yang Lifei and Liang Yiwen  |   2008-11-5  |     NEWSPAPER EDITION

YANGPU District police are investigating a string of burglaries carried out by a high-rise cat burglar early on Monday.

Eleven families at Shanghai Grand Garden on Zhoujiazui Road, including residents of the 13th and 14th floors, reported the theft of valuables worth a combined 10,000 yuan (US$1,463).

Residents believe the burglar sneaked into the building and climbed onto a ledge before maneuvering onto balconies. If the balcony had an open door, the burglar would enter and steal things before escaping via the same route.

It was a highly risky plan as a fall would almost certainly have led to the burglar's death.

There are 20 surveillance cameras in the community however, buildings 12 and 13, where the burglaries occurred, did not have the devices installed.

"Some residents suggested installing more surveillance cameras, but that costs money and must be approved by property owners. Fences will be constructed on hall windows, and anti-climbing devices will be added to water pipes," said Ji Weimin, deputy secretary of the community neighborhood.

He said the community would do a better job promoting anti-theft awareness among high-rise residents.

District police and neighborhood security guards have strengthened patrols in the areas.

At present, 48 security guards work at the complex and patrol the area at least once every hour at night.

It was unclear how many guards were on duty at the time of the burglaries.

A resident surnamed Shao, who lives on the 14th floor, said she noticed the theft about 4am yesterday.

"I went to the kitchen as usual and found my handbag on the floor," she was quoted as saying. "When I discovered my money was missing, I realized there had been a burglary. A PSP worth 2,000 yuan was also stolen."

Police warned people living in high-rises to be vigilant to intruders.