The sports world is reeling after a string of high-profile burglaries targeting NBA and NFL players, raising serious questions about safety and privacy for professional athletes. Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis and Minnesota Timberwolves guard Mike Conley Jr. recently became victims of break-ins, while Kansas City Chiefs icons Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were similarly targeted in separate incidents.
Portis made the shocking discovery of a break-in shortly after his team’s nail-biting victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Meanwhile, Conley’s home was burglarized as he attended a Minnesota Vikings game.
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FBI sounds the alarm
The severity of the situation has prompted the FBI to step in, briefing the NBA about a criminal operation involving “transnational South American Theft Groups” (SATGs). According to Leon Newsome, the NBA’s senior vice president and chief security officer, these syndicates are “well-organized, sophisticated rings” employing cutting-edge tools like drones and signal jammers.
“These SATGs are reportedly well-organized, sophisticated rings that incorporate advanced techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance, drones, and signal jamming devices. The SATGs are primarily focused on cash and items that can be resold on the black market, such as jewelry, watches, and luxury bags,” Newsome revealed in a memo to team executives.
The FBI also identified a critical vulnerability: many targeted homes had unactivated or outdated alarm systems. Most thefts occurred when the athletes were away, suggesting extensive pre-surveillance and meticulous planning by the criminals.
Leagues take action
Both the NBA and NFL are taking urgent steps to safeguard their players. The NBA has advised team officials to ensure their players upgrade alarm systems, install high-definition cameras, and consider hiring private security for extended absences. The NFL recently issued similar warnings to its athletes.
This growing trend of targeting professional athletes has sparked widespread concern. As the sports community braces for further developments, the FBI’s intervention underscores the seriousness of these crimes.
