Carabinieri forces in Cernusco sul Naviglio intercepted and arrested a 39-year-old undocumented South American man following a residential burglary attempt that escalated into a rooftop pursuit, according to local law enforcement reports. The suspect, characterized by authorities as a rooftop burglar, was taken into custody after attempting to evade capture by climbing gutters and traversing adjacent residential roofs.
Rooftop Pursuit Ends in Arrest
A Twilight Alert on Viale Assunta
The incident began when a resident on viale Assunta spotted suspicious movements on a first-floor balcony of an apartment building during the evening twilight hours, a period noted by investigators as a high-risk window for residential break-ins. The resident immediately alerted emergency services, prompting a carabinieri patrol already deployed on anti-theft saturation patrols to respond to the scene.
Perimeter Sealed During Drainpipe Escape
Upon arrival, military personnel confirmed the suspect’s presence on the terrace and quickly called for reinforcements, effectively sealing off the perimeter around the building. Rather than descending, the suspect scaled a drainpipe to reach upper levels, moving across multiple adjoining roofs. When further rooftop movement became impossible, he dropped to the ground near waiting officers, offering brief resistance before being restrained.

Heirlooms Recovered From Roof Surfaces
According to investigators, the apartment targeted in the break-in was temporarily vacant while the owners were away. The suspect forced entry through a balcony French door, gathering family heirlooms and jewelry. During the subsequent rooftop flight, some of the stolen items were scattered across the balconies and roof surfaces. Recovered valuables were subsequently returned to the homeowners, while the suspect was held in a secure holding facility pending an expedited court hearing.
Intensified Security Across Urban Peripherals
The operation forms part of an intensified security initiative deployed across peripheral urban areas to curb an ongoing rise in residential property thefts.
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