JOHOR BARU: A gang believed to be behind 31 robberies and break-ins in Johor was crippled with the arrest of 11 suspects, said police.
Police recovered RM95,000 worth of items, believed stolen from victims.
Johor police chief Commissioner M. Kumar today said the suspects, including two women, and aged between 20 and 65, were arrested between Aug 12 and 26.
Police believe the alleged gang leader, Bala, was among those arrested.
Gang Bala used weapons to intimidate victims during the break-ins, Kumar said.
One suspect was a man who disposed of the stolen items to unwary buyers, he added.
Kumar said the robbers even stole toys.
Police confiscated liquor bottles, jewellery, luxury watches, branded handbags, collectors' items and a remote-control car.
"They have been active for the past six months, and were responsible for robberies in Johor Baru, Kulai, Pontian, and Muar.
"Gang members targeted victims in affluent residential areas and houses that lacked security."
The gang worked in a group of four, with a driver.
Kumar said eight suspects tested positive for drugs, and all had crime and drug offences.