The miners were reportedly worth $2.7 million and were targeted by a South American theft ring
Police in Los Angeles have recovered a shipment of Bitcoin mining machines worth approximately $2.7 million after a coordinated heist at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Authorities believe the crime was carried out by members of a South American theft ring known for targeting valuable cargo throughout the region.
The Los Angeles Police Department shared on April 22 that its Cargo Theft Unit worked closely with several other agencies, including the Port Police, Union Pacific Police, and Airport Police, to make arrests and track down the stolen goods. Two individuals — Oscar David Borrero-Manchola and Yonaiker Rafael Martinez-Ramos — were taken into custody. Both men are believed to play key roles in the criminal network behind the operation.
Police said the mining machines were recovered from storage units in the San Fernando Valley. In total, the search revealed around $4 million in stolen merchandise. Along with the crypto mining rigs, detectives also seized a variety of high-value consumer items, including large amounts of tequila, designer clothing, electronics, pet supplies, and other goods.
The Bitcoin mining rigs were reportedly stolen while awaiting international shipment to Hong Kong. These types of machines are especially valuable, often priced between $3,000 and $5,000 each, depending on the model and condition.
Borrero-Manchola was booked and later released after being cited for possession of stolen property. Martinez-Ramos remains in custody on a no-bail warrant. Police noted that the investigation is still active and that more arrests are likely.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of theft targeting crypto mining hardware, which remains a hot commodity on the black market. Law enforcement agencies across the US and internationally have seen multiple cases involving similar stolen equipment in recent years. The LAPD has not disclosed details about the specific models recovered or their intended use.
