Two men suspected of stealing more than $3.9 million worth of cargo found at San Fernando Valley storage facilities and Los Angeles International Airport have been arrested.
Following the execution of search warrants at the storage facilities, LAPD Commercial Crimes Division-Cargo Theft Unit detectives, with the assistance of Los Angeles Port Police, Union Pacific Police Department and Los Angeles World Airport Police personnel, began an investigation during the past week that led to the arrests of 41-year-old Oscar David Borrero-Manchola and 25-year-old Yonaiker Rafael Martinez-Ramos, police said.
Investigators described the two suspects as prominent South American Theft Group members allegedly affiliated with the theft, movement and sale of stolen cargo in Los Angeles.
Police said over $1.2 million worth of stolen tequila, speakers, coffee, clothing, shoes, body wash and pet food were recovered by Cargo Theft Unit detectives during the investigation.
Cargo Theft Unit detectives also recovered a stolen shipment of bitcoin mining computers valued at $2.7 million from Los Angeles International Airport before the shipment was about to be loaded onto a plane bound for Hong Kong.
Both suspects were arrested and booked into the Van Nuys Jail, Borrero-Manchola on suspicion of receiving stolen property. He was later cited and released from custody, while Martinez-Ramos was being held without bail.
Anyone with additional information regarding the cargo theft was urged to call the Commercial Crimes Division at 213-486-5920 between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Calls during non-business hours or weekends should be directed to 877-527-3247. Tipsters who choose to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.
