High value cargo transportation comes with steep risks. Criminals are eager to target these loads, since a successful theft can mean lofty rewards. But on 9/10/2025, these thieves met their match when attempting to steal $1.4 million worth of electronics.
Overhaul’s LE Connect team, working alongside law enforcement agencies, successfully stopped the thieves. By using the Risk Monitor platform, they were able to locate and retrieve the valuable goods. This culminated in the arrest of eight suspects and the seizure of additional illegal items.
Here’s more about the theft, Overhaul’s recovery efforts, and the security measures that can help protect your own supply chain from evolving threats.
Breaking down the high value theft
Where, when, and how
In the early morning hours of September 10, a full truckload of consumer electronics was stolen from a yard in San Bernardino County, California. The incident was discovered when the Overhaul GSOC detected unusual movement of a shipment scheduled for departure later that morning.
The high value shipment had begun traveling into Los Angeles County. For this reason, Overhaul’s LE Connect team quickly engaged with both the San Bernardino and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Offices. Responding units on the ground were sent real-time tracking and critical sensor data. This enabled law enforcement to pinpoint the location of the precious cargo.
Recovering goods and weapons
Utilizing the Risk Monitor platform, law enforcement tracked the freight to Compton. Here, police found the trailer and observed that approximately half had already been unloaded. An immediate investigation was initiated, which led to the recovery of the remaining high value goods. This included $1.4 million worth of stolen computers, and the arrest of eight individuals involved in the theft.
Additionally, detectives seized several weapons, including an AK-47 and an AR-15, high-capacity magazines, about 2 lbs. of methamphetamine, and seven stolen vehicles. The evidence suggests ties to organized crime, potentially linked to Khalistan and Armenian crime rings.
Recommendations for electronics cargo transportation
Handling high value cargo has high security requirements
Overhaul recommends that shippers of high demand or high value products thoroughly vet brokers and carriers within their network. It is crucial to document all drivers, tractors, and trailers. This involves capturing photos of all identifying markings (such as VIN) and the drivers’ CDLs. You must ensure these details match the information provided prior to the drivers’ arrival.
Cargo insurance coverage is also an important consideration for an effective risk management program. Although it doesn’t reduce the risks of a theft, it can help you recover financially in worst case scenarios.
To further reduce the risks of theft, it’s important to use contextual intelligence. Remote compliance monitoring and real-time visibility are also key. Additionally, an immediate escalation process is essential for effective law enforcement, as it helps in quickly recovering stolen cargo.
Additional ways to keep your valuable cargo protected
Unfortunately, high value cargo transportation will always come with risks. In the United States, electronics were among thieves’ most desired products in 2024. The aforementioned recommendations, such as working with trusted carriers, can help negate some risks. However, threats are constantly evolving, and you need to stay aware of and prepared against them.
Overhaul helps companies keep their in-transit products secure. Through a combination of visibility, risk monitoring, intelligence, and insurance, we offer the insights and support you need to achieve KPIs and avoid threats.
Shipping high value products can be highly stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Learn more about Overhaul’s unique offerings for electronics shippers.
