A team of house burglars dubbed the "Underwear Gang" by the police has struck for the fifth time this year, local media reported today.

The three-man gang, armed with bolt-cutters and screwdrivers but wearing only T-shirts and underpants, broke into a house in Malacca by prising open a sliding door, police spokesman Gemon Ishak told the New Straits Times.

The owner of the house, a 29-year-old woman, was awakened by the noise and went to investigate, surprising the scantily-clad burglars who bundled her and two maids into a room before fleeing with RM30,000 in cash and jewellery.

Black t-shirts

"The robbers were all dressed in black t-shirts and underpants while their faces were covered with a cloth," Gemon said.

"We believe the same gang is responsible for at least four house break-ins earlier this year."

Police offered no comment on why the gang operates in underpants, but one theory is that they believe a lack of outer clothing will make it harder for victims to describe them to police. - AFP