Three individuals suspected of being part of a robbery ring from South America, known for targeting the homes of high-profile athletes including Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce from the Kansas City Chiefs, have been arrested in Argentina and extradited back to Chile, according to Chilean authorities. These three Chilean nationals are wanted in connection with a string of thefts involving professional athletes across the U.S.
Among those arrested, Ignacio Zuniga Cartes and Bastian Jimenez Frero were part of a group detained for a robbery at the residence of former Argentine tennis star Juan Martín del Potro earlier this month. Meanwhile, the third suspect, Pablo Zuniga Cartes, was apprehended independently and is not linked to the Del Potro incident.
The arrests resulted from a coordinated effort between Argentine police and Chilean officials. Currently, the suspects are held in Chile, awaiting potential extradition to the United States.
These individuals are part of a larger group facing charges detailed in a federal complaint that has been attributed to what law enforcement calls the South American Theft Group (SATG).
A recent complaint filed in January 2025 suggests that the group monitored game schedules to identify when athletes would be away from their homes. The investigation revealed their apparent method of operation: they often approached residences via wooded or poorly lit areas, breaking in by smashing windows or prying open doors.
The criminal activities have led to the theft of millions in valuables, including designer handbags, Rolex watches, and significant amounts of cash, across multiple states.
Notably, both Mahomes and Kelce experienced burglaries at their homes just days apart in October 2024, while they were away from their residence in Kansas City. The methods used in these incidents mirrored an earlier burglary at a Tampa Bay Buccaneers player’s home, wherein thieves caused around $167,000 in damages and stolen goods. The January indictment also connected this ring to a robbery at the home of a Memphis Grizzlies player during a game.
Further into the investigation, it was discovered that the robbers avoided detection by utilizing disposable phones and frequently changing devices and SIM cards. They allegedly even coordinated the rentals of cars and hotels, using fake identification to facilitate their operations.
An NFL security memo previously warned players about the growing threat posed by organized theft rings targeting professional athletes, advising them to enhance home security and refrain from posting travel updates on social media.
The seven individuals named in the federal complaint face conspiracy charges related to the interstate transport of stolen property. Convictions could lead to sentences of up to 10 years in federal prison.
