Cargo theft activity in Mexico has remained at alarmingly high rates since early 2007 with indications of theft activity spreading from previously centralized areas.  Gangs are significantly more aggressive and violent than those in the United States and Canada. Mexico's cargo theft gangs are well-armed and often target their loads as a result of insider information obtained through employee collusion. Mexican cargo theft gangs primarily target electronics, pharmaceuticals, and high-value apparel items; these organized criminal elements know what they are after and more often than not succeed in securing their objective. 
 
The first quarter of 2009 has seen significant cargo theft activity in Mexico.  Obtaining cargo theft statistics in Mexico is an extremely difficult process.  In the first week of April, an article in Proceso ("Newsweek" of Mexico) highlighted the difficulties of obtaining even such mundane data as accident statistics on a route between Cuernavaca and Acapulco for insurance purposes.  Despite this, FreightWatch International has collected anecdotal data on cargo theft activity through press articles and through contacts and relationships throughout the logistics industry.  Through these means, FWI has recorded 85 full truckload thefts in Q1, seven of which were major incidents that occurred on the border that involved smugglers using the supply chain for illicit purposes.  From this, FWI is able to conduct statistical analysis to project overall cargo theft activity for the country.

To view this report: Click Here

© 2009 FreightWatch International (USA)

Source www.freightwatchusa.com

Event: FTL Pharmaceutical Theft
Date: 04/16/09
Location: Elizabeth, New Jersey
 
Description:  A full truckload of pharmaceuticals was stolen at approximately 11 p.m., Thursday, April 16, in Elizabeth, New Jersey.  The load consisted of 14 pallets of a non-controlled pharmaceutical. 
 
It was reported to FreightWatch International that the driver left the loaded tractor-trailer in an unsecured lot on April 16 at 4 p.m.  At 11 p.m., CCTV shows the rig departing.  The driver returned to the lot at 5 a.m. the following morning to discover the tractor-trailer missing.   
 
The load value was reported at $11.8 million (USD). 
 
FWI Recommendation: This is another example of extreme high value loads being left unattended in unsecured areas.  Shippers are strongly encouraged not to release loads until an adequate amount of time is available for the load to reach its destination, with minimal time for stopping while en route.  High value loads are virtually never stolen while in motion or while attended.  Freight at Rest is Freight at Risk.

FSB 090417(2)
© 2009 FreightWatch International (USA)
Source: freightwatchusa.com