Investigators say five people worked together, using an SUV to scout victims at busy Muni stops.
Police used drones to track the group last week, as they followed a Muni bus at Mission and 24th Street, boarded it - and then eventually ripped a gold chain from a passenger's neck.
MORE: A look at SFPD's new drone program and how it's reshaping the department's response to incidents
At Missino and Tingley streets, a male suspect ran off the bus with the chain and was later taken into custody after a short foot chase. Two other female suspects also ran off the bus and re-entered the suspect vehicle, before the rest were taken into custody as well.
All five suspects, who range from 18 to 29 years old, now face robbery and conspiracy charges.
Police believe they're linked to several similar crimes - and are asking anyone with information to call the tip line at 415-575-4444 or text a tip to TIP411 and begin the message with SFPD.