BOSTON— As the festive Diwali season approaches, Indian American community leaders across Massachusetts are issuing renewed warnings to remain alert amid reports of potential new threats targeting South Asian households — even after the conviction and sentencing of a major robbery ring earlier this year.
Community advocates say that although justice was served in August, when three men were sentenced to 9 to 13 years in prison for a series of burglaries targeting Indian families, new fringe groups have emerged, reigniting concerns around safety and cultural vulnerability.
“Just because some were caught doesn’t mean we can let our guard down,” said Samir Desai, a community leader and victim of a past robbery. “The holiday season is supposed to be a time of light and family. But for many of us, it’s now shadowed by fear.”
Desai’s home was among those burglarized in a string of over 40 break-ins between 2018 and 2024 that disproportionately affected Indian and South Asian households across the region. The robbers primarily stole heirloom gold, religious artifacts, and items of cultural significance.
Now, with reports of suspicious activity and attempts in other neighborhoods surfacing, Desai is calling on the community to be proactive.
“I cannot stress this enough — if you see something, say something,” Desai urged. “I know the pain of walking into a ransacked home. Please report any unusual behavior to the police immediately. And visit INDIA New England News — we’ve created a space with resources, updates, and reporting tools. This season, let’s protect each other the way our ancestors taught us: with courage and unity.”
Earlier this year, Jovan Lemon, Paul Lemon, and Steven Berdugo — all from Rhode Island — pleaded guilty in Middlesex Superior Court to dozens of counts of unarmed burglary and were sentenced for their roles in what was described as a “coordinated, targeted operation” against South Asian families.
The community welcomed the convictions but remained uneasy. That unease is again being validated, say leaders, with reports of suspicious vehicles, individuals casing homes, and attempted break-ins in suburban neighborhoods with large Indian populations.
Upendra Mishra, publisher of INDIA New England News, emphasized that despite the significant legal consequences handed down this summer, the threat has not disappeared.
“Even with harsh sentences and media coverage, the robberies have not stopped,” said Mishra. “That tells us something deeper is going on — it’s not just about valuables, but targeting. We must remain vigilant, especially during the holiday season when families are traveling, hosting events, or attending temple gatherings.”
Mishra also urged local law enforcement agencies to take these threats seriously and to work more closely with community members. He also urged the community to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to their local police.
Community Resources and Action
To support residents during the holiday season, INDIA New England News has continued to maintain a dedicated resource page with safety tips, police contact numbers, and reporting tools. The platform also encourages the use of neighborhood watch groups, home security systems, and community forums to share real-time updates.
Local leaders are also in discussion with town officials and police departments about increasing patrols in affected areas and conducting cultural sensitivity training to better understand the significance of what is being lost in these crimes.
In the meantime, the message from leaders is clear: celebrate, but stay alert.
“We deserve to celebrate Diwali with joy, not with fear,” Desai said. “But we must be smart. We must protect our families, our homes, and our heritage.”
To report suspicious activity or access community resources, visit www.indianewengland.com.
If you would like to contribute to coverage, submit tips, or share your story, please email editorial@MishraGroup.com
