LAPD Recovers $4M in Cargo Theft Bust

Los Angeles law enforcement agencies have reported a significant rise in cargo thefts, with local businesses such as R & R Transport Service and Ari Bikes losing high-value shipments to sophisticated thieves using seemingly legitimate credentials. In response, the LAPD's Commercial Crimes Division, along with the Los Angeles Port Police, Union Pacific Railroad Police, and L.A. Airport Police, recovered nearly $4 million in stolen goods, including $2.7 million in bitcoin mining computers intercepted at LAX and over $1.2 million in merchandise like tequila and electronics. Two alleged members of the South American Theft Group, Oscar David Borrero-Manchola and Yonaiker Rafael Martinez-Ramos, were arrested; Borrero-Manchola was cited and released, while Martinez-Ramos is held on a no-bail warrant. The operation underscores the increasing organization and scale of cargo theft rings in the region. Authorities have advised businesses to enhance security as investigations continue and more arrests are possible. The thefts and law enforcement response highlight ongoing challenges in securing commercial transportation.