Nine men linked to Sinaloa cartel arrested
San Bernardino officials seized $333,000 in goods and weapons from a home tied to coordinated thefts from BNSF rail cars.
By Enzo Almasi ·
Rail freight theft has become a persistent operational challenge for logistics networks across the western United States, creating specific vulnerabilities in supply chains that organized crime groups have identified as targets for rapid extraction and resale.
San Bernardino County authorities arrested nine men on Wednesday who investigators believe coordinated a series of heists against Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway freight cars. The suspects, all from Sinaloa, Mexico, are accused of stealing retail merchandise valued at several million dollars in total.
The investigation identified a coordinated operation involving specific vehicles and personnel. This intelligence allowed the sheriff’s department to execute a search warrant on October 16 at a residence on East 35th Street, near Harrison and Lynwood Drive in San Bernardino.
Officers recovered $333,000 in stolen property, including JBL speakers, Logitech hardware, Victoria’s Secret merchandise, Nike and New Balance shoes, and Husky tools. The seizure also included four semi-automatic pistols, a drone, cutting tools used to access containers, and fentanyl intended for sale.
The nine defendants face charges for conspiracy, theft of railroad property, and possession of a controlled substance while armed. The department stated that the group targeted BNSF rail cars specifically to extract high-value consumer goods for quick distribution.
Investigators are asking the public to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department with any information about the crimes. Residents can call or text the word REPORT to We-Tip at 844-909-3006.
Source: KVEA
