A pipeline transferring stolen vehicles across the border is believed to have supplied Mexican cartels with cars and trucks for their criminal operations, federal authorities report. Thirteen individuals are now facing charges related to this activity.
The vehicles, taken from both private owners and large rental companies, were reportedly driven through El Paso, Texas, and smuggled into Mexico to aid the cartels’ daily activities, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas.
So far, 29 vehicles worth approximately $1.14 million have been recovered during the investigation, which is being referred to as Operation Southbound Takedown.
Ryan G. McRae, a special agent overseeing Homeland Security Investigations in El Paso, mentioned that these stolen vehicles reflect a broader pattern of criminal activity beyond mere auto theft.
“These are not just isolated property crimes,” McRae stated. “The vehicles involved in Operation Southbound Takedown reveal a troubling trend and are employed to support the daily operations of dangerous criminal organizations.”
Images shared by prosecutors included a white SUV covered in bullet holes found in Mexico, alongside an armored black SUV and a fortified pickup truck.
The investigation began in the spring when federal agents noticed a troubling pattern of stolen vehicles being moved to people allegedly linked with criminal groups in Mexico, as noted by the U.S. attorney’s office.
U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons cautioned individuals thinking about transporting stolen vehicles into Mexico, stating that cartels are taking advantage of those seeking quick profits to bolster their illegal activities.
He outlined these activities as including human smuggling, extortion, drug trafficking, and even murder.
“You’ve been warned,” Simmons said. “If you assist these cartels, which are recognized as foreign terrorist organizations, by transporting stolen vehicles across the border, we will find you and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”
Among those charged, 11 are U.S. citizens and two are Mexican citizens, with one of the latter holding a lawful permanent resident card and the other a border crossing card.
Two of the Americans, Kimberly Aguilar and Marty Gerardo Jr., are currently in state custody. The other 11 have been federally indicted and apprehended between July 22 and October 19, as noted by prosecutors.
All 13 face charges of interstate transportation of stolen property, which could lead to up to 10 years in federal prison if they are convicted. It’s important to point out that these charges are just allegations, and each person is considered innocent until proven guilty.
The investigation involved collaboration among Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, and various federal, state, and local agencies as part of the Homeland Security Task Force.
McRae asserted that authorities have partnered with private sector players to disrupt the network responsible for the alleged vehicle theft and transport, marking an effort that spans both the United States and Mexico.
“Our work is ongoing; this isn’t where we stop,” he affirmed.
FBI El Paso acting Special Agent in Charge Coult W. Markovsky also delivered a warning to those aiding the cartels, asserting, “Justice will find you!”
