In Paris, a gang known as ‘termites’ specializes in stealthy jewelry store break-ins, using drills to tunnel through walls. After a failed burglary attempt revealed their methods, authorities launched an investigation. Utilizing DNA and tracking a stolen vehicle, police apprehended two suspects, one with an astounding 16 aliases. They were ultimately charged with burglary and conspiracy, receiving two-year sentences, with one suspect banned from France for three years.
In the world of criminal slang used by the Brigade de répression du banditisme (BRB) of Paris, they are referred to as ‘termites’. These skilled individuals utilize drills to infiltrate jewelry stores, often without detection, by creating holes in shared walls. They are known to put in long hours, working day and night to access their desired haul.
Last September, the BRB was alerted to a potential break-in. A jewelry store on Rue Cail in the 10th arrondissement reported that a hole had been started in the building’s cellar. An electric drill was found abandoned on the scene, suggesting a well-planned operation. The hole’s location hinted that the culprits were aware of the valuables secured behind the wall.
The BRB detectives quickly deduced that a group of ‘drillers’ was operating in the area. With no fingerprints left behind and surveillance footage providing little insight, the investigation appeared challenging.
Clues Lead to a Breakthrough
However, a DNA sample provided a crucial lead for the law enforcement team. They eventually located a stolen utility vehicle that was equipped with counterfeit license plates. A source familiar with the investigation remarked, “This was a work vehicle where the termites kept all their latest tools.” The suspects often disguised themselves as construction workers to blend in.
After extensive surveillance and numerous follow-ups, the BRB tracked down this vehicle a few days later. The effort involved meticulous monitoring both day and night, which ultimately yielded results.
The ‘termite’ gang had initiated activities at a new site on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis. Their approach was strikingly similar to their previous scheme, attempting to breach the fortified walls of a jewelry store’s basement through the cellars of an adjacent building.
Bold Moves in the Neighborhood
These audacious suspects took their confidence to another level. In the hallway of the building they invaded, they even left an unsigned note for residents, apologizing for the noise caused by their drilling.
“Dear neighbors, I regret to inform you that I will be undertaking some noisy work,” read the note in a seemingly polite tone. “This work will not exceed one hour. As I work during the day, I plan to begin around 7 or 8 PM to minimize disturbance. I appreciate your understanding.”
On September 24, law enforcement finally apprehended the culprits in the act. Their impressive array of tools – including a thermal grinder and electric drill – could rival that of any construction firm.
Criminal Histories Unveiled
The two individuals arrested were in their forties and had previous records for similar crimes. One suspect, an Argentine national, was known as an “experienced penetrator” and had garnered the nickname “ghost.” A Parisian police officer shared, “He was operating under 16 different identities.” These numerous aliases allowed him to evade law enforcement throughout Europe.
After being taken into custody on charges of burglary and criminal conspiracy, the two men eventually confessed. They faced immediate trial, resulting in sentences of 2 years in prison: Farid H. received a full term, while Leandro S. was ordered to serve 2 years, with one year suspended, along with a 3-year ban from entering France.