Rash Of Restaurant Burglaries In South Orange County Reported Over Weekend

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — Seven Rancho Santa Margarita restaurants were hit by burglars at around 4 a.m. Saturday, the Orange County Sheriff's Department reported.

Security footage at one of the burglarized restaurants revealed two suspects using power tools to break into locked safes.

Orange County Sheriff's deputies said the suspects also stole safes that had not been properly anchored to the ground.

The two suspects were clad in black clothing and hats and have yet to be identified, authorities said.

Rancho Santa Margarita businesses affected include Lulu's Cafe, Luna Grill, Mountain Mike's Pizza and La Fiesta Mexican Grill, the Orange County Register reported. OCSD Sgt. Mike Woofroof told the OC Register that the suspects "targeted several locations, including three restaurants in one strip mall area."

Lulu's Cafe Owner Susan Bhosle told the newspaper that the burglars entered by breaking a glass door before stealing cash from the register. She said the repairs would amount more to the money that was stolen.

Residents with information were urged to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at 714 647-7000.