Burglars Hitting Cell Phone, Electronics Stores In Downtown Area

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Police are warning cell phone and electronics businesses in the downtown area that about a band of burglars that have been breaking in and stealing merchandise.

The burglars have been breaking into the businesses during the wee hours of the morning, between 2 and 6 a.m., police said. They throw bricks or rocks through the windows to make their way in, and usually target items they can carry off easily such as cell phones or small electronic equipment, police said.

Police say the burglaries have happened in the Near North and Central districts – an expanse that stretches from Lincoln Park south to the Near South Side – but the exact locations of the affected businesses was not specified.

The burglars are described as two to three black males between the ages of 17 and 30, wearing dark clothing and hooded sweat shirts. No further description was provided.

Police advise neighbors to tell business owners about the burglaries, and for merchants to maintain their surveillance cameras and alarm systems. Anyone who sees burglars should not confront them, but should call 911 immediately, police said. Crime scenes must be left alone so police can gather evidence.

Anyone with information is asked to call Belmont Area police detectives, at (312) 744-8263.