Albanian Burglars Caught After Daring Cheshire Crime Spree
Two Albanian burglars have been locked up for 56 months each after a brazen burglary spree ripped through seven Cheshire homes — including Aston Villa star Scott Hogan’s.
56 Months Behind Bars for High-Risk Break-Ins
Denis Puka, 28, from Credition, and Erisjan Laska, 29, from Eccles Street, pleaded guilty at Chester Crown Court on 3 February 2026 to conspiracy to commit burglary. Their crime spree hit Warrington, Northwich, and Knutsford between 5 and 7 June 2025. Using ladders, scaling drainpipes, and standing on each other’s shoulders, the pair broke into first-floor windows with military precision. They coordinated with walkie-talkies and made a swift escape in a getaway car.
Footballer Scott Hogan’s Family Left Traumatised
Among the victims was footballer Scott Hogan. On 7 June, he was woken at 11.30pm by torchlight flashing through his bedroom window. Hogan’s pregnant wife and young daughter were home during the terrifying break-in attempt.
“I can’t put into words completely what a dramatic effect this has had on me and my family,” Hogan told the court. “It has led to many sleepless nights full of stress and anxiety.”
Luckily, nothing was stolen from Hogan’s house. He has since boosted home security to protect his loved ones.
Police Crack the Case with Cloned Plates and Quick Arrests
Officers tracked the criminals to a Seat Leon loaded with stolen goods and burglary tools. The car, shipped from Sheffield to Warrington on a flatbed, had cloned number plates. Puka was arrested in Surrey on 2 July 2025. Laska was caught in Sheffield a day later. Both men were swiftly charged.
Cheshire Police Constable Simon Gibson said: “Puka and Laska thought they could travel hundreds of miles to Cheshire and get away with a series of burglaries – but they seriously underestimated us.” “Their guilty pleas and sentences show the strength of our evidence. Our teams worked tirelessly to track them down and bring them to justice.” “If you plan to commit crime in Cheshire, we will find you and hold you responsible.”
Only Two Luxury Watches Stolen Despite Seven Break-Ins
Despite their bold attempts, the burglars walked away with just two luxury watches — a Rolex and an Omega. Most homes were left untouched by theft.
