13.01.2025 15:12
During the fires that have affected Los Angeles, looting incidents are increasing in the evacuated areas. Sheriff Robert Luna announced that 29 people have been arrested, including a thief disguised as a firefighter. Wealthy residents are hiring private security companies to protect their homes.
As the fires ravaging Los Angeles continue, looting incidents are increasing in the evacuated areas. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna announced that 29 people have been arrested, including a thief caught dressed as a firefighter.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Sheriff Luna said, "We caught a suspect wearing a firefighter's outfit looting burned homes in Malibu. He presented himself as an employee of a fire station, but that was a lie."
The wealthy residents in the area are hiring private security companies to protect their homes. Private security officer Arturo Garcia stated, "We patrol 24 hours in Pacific Palisades. We prevented several looting attempts last week. We caught a suspect with luxury goods."
Sheriff Luna emphasized that they will take strict measures against looters, saying, "I want to address those considering stealing the belongings of our citizens affected by the fire: You will be caught and punished to the fullest extent of the law."
The local government has declared a curfew from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM in the area. Some homeowners have hung warning signs stating, "Thieves will be shot."
So far, 24 people have lost their lives in the fires, and more than 12,000 structures have been damaged. Thousands of people, including celebrities, have been forced to leave their homes. Authorities have not yet allowed residents to return to their homes due to safety concerns.