A wave of burglaries targeting professional athletes has law enforcement on high alert, with reports indicating South American organized crime groups are behind the sophisticated operations. The FBI recently issued a warning to major sports leagues, detailing how these groups utilize surveillance, including monitoring social media, to pinpoint when athletes are away from their homes. The thieves are drawn by the perceived wealth of these individuals, targeting high-value items like designer goods, jewelry, and cash.

Several high-profile athletes, including NFL stars Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Joe Burrow, along with NBA star Luka Doncic, have fallen victim to these burglaries in recent months. The crimes often occur while the residences are unoccupied, but there have been instances where residents were present during the break-ins. The FBI advises individuals to avoid confrontation with potential criminals and prioritize contacting law enforcement. In a statement to Fox News Digital, the FBI affirmed its commitment to monitoring threats and sharing information with law enforcement partners and the private sector to ensure public safety. The NFL also issued a security alert to its players in November regarding the escalating home burglaries, with sources indicating a South American crime ring as the primary suspect. The ring is believed to have been operating nationwide, targeting both NFL and NBA players.