Warehouses, logistics hubs, and other industrial properties can benefit from a cargo theft security solution. Trained remote surveillance operators use video analytics to watch commercial properties and help deter thieves and vandals. In addition, there is the added benefit of access control and two-way communications.
Truck drivers picking up or dropping off cargo must stop their vehicle and speak with an access control operator. The remote video surveillance cameras can also scan and identify license plates and truck numbers. Once inside the warehouse or logistics hub, the operators can watch the truck driver’s activity via outdoor surveillance cameras.
One warehouse did not use Stealth’s remote video surveillance system and thieves stole $6 million worth of iPhones.
A confidential informant told Florida Police a suspect solicited him to steal cargo from a warehouse at Miami International Airport in exchange for $40,000. The warehouse theft was scheduled to occur in October and November but never happened.
Several months later, the airport district police were contacted about a theft of more than 23,000 Apple iPhones. A cargo theft security camera recorded the events. A tractor-trailer pulled into the warehouse. The driver showed an ID and the necessary paperwork. Soon after, the cargo was moved onto the tractor-trailer.
It was unknown if the on-site cargo theft security cameras provided live-monitoring.
The police kept a close watch on the suspect. They witnessed him drive to a parking lot of a well-known home improvement chain, where they made an arrest.
The suspect was a 53-year-old man who was charged with grand theft, criminal mischief, and tampering with physical evidence.
This warehouse is not a Stealth Monitoring remote video surveillance client.
Cargo Theft Data
Warehouse theft continues to be a problem across the United States. The FBI reported there were 547 incidents of cargo theft in one year, valued at an estimated $32.5 million. Cities that serve as transportation hubs, including New York City, El Paso, Miami, Chicago, and Memphis, have been the main targets.
Cargo theft typically falls under the jurisdiction of the local police. Once it surpasses state borders, the FBI becomes involved. Cargo theft security cameras can help local authorities and FBI officers by capturing video that can be used as evidence.
The most commonly stolen items are pharmaceuticals, cigarettes, and electronics because they yield very high profits in the black market.
The FBI refers to cargo theft as a ‘gateway’ crime. In many instances, a cargo theft investigation will turn into a case involving organized crime, public corruption, fraud, money laundering, and terrorism.
