Three arrested in Shilin antiques heist

士林高價古董遭竊警逮3嫌

High-value Buddhist statues, antiques, and more are missing from Shilin


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Three arrests have been made in a Shilin antiques robbery case over the weekend, reports CNA.

The robbery occurred Nov. 4 around 2 a.m. Large quantities of antiques, including a few very pricey Buddhist statues, as well as wine, pu'er tea, and cigars, were stolen from the Shilin workshop.

The estimated value of the burgled goods is not being released at this time, however the wine alone is said to have been worth NT$9,000 (US$300).

Security cameras helped police to quickly identify three male suspects. Warrants were issued for their arrest and police arrested the men shortly after.

The security footage showed the men first stealing a blue truck near Meilun Park (美崙公園), taking a cab to Shilin, and then swiftly entering the building. Subsequent security camera footage then showed the men driving to Banqiao, where they divvied their finds.

All of the burglars, aged 26, 39, and 45, respectively, have prior records of drug and robbery offenses.