First, make a police report, the thieving airline employees will not be able to blame the TSA, which is their usual claim. Your bag went through security with you present. If it was gate checked into the hold, presumably it remained in the control of United. You absolutely should report it to the police, explaining the full circumstances.
They will deny liability for your valuables, citing their Terms and Conditions. In fact, you followed their advice and kept the items with you. They removed them from you...and should be responsible for the thieves that they employ.
Then, gather together the receipts for your stolen items. File a claim with the airline, which includes copies of your receipts and copy this claim to the DOT. There is a link to the DOT on the "quick links" on this site. In your claim, point out that you kept these items in your possession and it was United who took them off you and made you gate check them.
I would not accept feeble excuses and token gestures. Hold out for cash compensation not miles. Do not accept compensation in this form for the items stolen by their thieving employees... they are responsible for the thieves they employ. Be prepared to file a small claims court claim....I think any reasonable court would find that you took all reasonable measures to protect your possessions. United took away your ability to do so by making you check the bag with the valuables that you were seeking to protect from their thieving employees.
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