In an eerie warning, police in California are advising residents to decline hugs from strangers who seemingly have more sinister intentions.
Authorities arrested three suspects in connection with a string of violent robberies this month in which they lure victims in with affection.
"The victim reported that a vehicle parked in front of his driveway and a female exited the vehicle while a male remained in the driver seat. The female approached the victim, attempted to hug him, and forcefully removed a gold chain from his neck," police in Rancho Santa Margarita, California announced on Facebook Tuesday.
The investigation led to the apprehension of a trio of unidentified individuals accused of orchestrating the robberies.
Approximately fifty pieces of jewelry belonging to different victims were recovered from the suspects' vehicle.
"As a reminder to our citizens, please remain vigilant and cautious of strangers approaching you for any reason," warned police.
