Police recently recovered nearly $4 million in stolen goods linked to a South American crime ring operating in Los Angeles. The stolen items included coffee, tequila, shoes, body wash, pet food, and bitcoin-mining computers. Two suspects, Oscar David Borrero-Manchola, 41, and Yonaiker Rafael Martinez-Ramos, 26, were arrested in connection with this theft.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced the arrests after an extensive investigation by their cargo theft unit. This unit collaborated with other agencies, including the Los Angeles Port Police and the Union Pacific Police Department. Their efforts led to the discovery of about $1.2 million worth of stolen goods stored in facilities across the San Fernando Valley. Among the recovered items were speakers and clothing. Additionally, detectives intercepted a shipment of stolen bitcoin-mining computers valued at approximately $2.7 million, which was about to be shipped to Hong Kong.
Borrero-Manchola was arrested on April 15 and booked into a Van Nuys jail on charges of receiving stolen property. He was released the next day on his own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in court on May 7. Martinez-Ramos was taken into custody by Glendale police on a no-bail warrant and is currently held at Men’s Central Jail, with a court appearance set for Thursday.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities indicate that more arrests could follow. South American theft groups, often referred to as "burglary tourists," have increasingly targeted affluent neighborhoods in California, arriving on tourist visas to commit crimes. This trend has raised concerns among law enforcement, especially as these groups have become more sophisticated in their methods.
In recent incidents, other theft rings have been apprehended, including four Colombian men charged with conspiracy to commit burglary after a high-speed chase in May 2024. In another case, seven Chileans were charged with stealing over $2 million in valuables from the homes of professional athletes.
As the LAPD continues its investigation, they emphasize the importance of community awareness and vigilance in preventing such crimes.