Organized Crime Fuels Cargo Theft Surge In Mexico

In August, Mexico experienced an average of six cargo thefts per day, primarily concentrated in the central region, according to the National Association of Vehicle Tracking and Protection Companies (ANERPV). A total of 142 cargo trucks were reported stolen or robbed that month, reflecting a 2.8% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

Jose Suarez, a Latin America expert for real-time visibility provider Tive, noted that organized criminal groups are the main perpetrators of cargo theft in Mexico. "Cargo theft in Mexico is fully organized crime to the highest level. The equipment and techniques used by these groups are highly advanced," Suarez stated in an interview with FreightWaves.

Tive, founded in 2015 and based in Boston, offers freight visibility solutions, including tracking devices that provide real-time data. Suarez explained that the modus operandi of these criminal organizations often involves a vehicle that slows down traffic around a targeted truck. "They don’t even let the tractor-trailer stop; they just reduce its speed," he added.

Once a truck is slowed, another armed member of the group may attempt to enter the vehicle. "They instruct the driver to lower the window and then gain access," Suarez said. "They stop the truck and begin unloading the trailer, or they may take the entire truck with them."

The highways in the Puebla and Mexico City regions, as well as other central states, are identified as particularly hazardous for transporters, with Puebla reporting 46 stolen cargo trucks and the State of Mexico reporting 27 incidents in August alone.

Suarez also highlighted the use of tracking jammers by organized criminals. "On highways in states like Queretaro, you can see these jammers, which can cost $10,000 each, being used to disrupt tracking devices on trucks," he remarked.

Data shows that nearly 88% of cargo thefts occurred while trucks were in transit, with 9% taking place while parked. Tive’s tracking devices provide various monitoring solutions, including temperature control and alerts for unusual activity. "Our devices are designed to accompany your cargo, allowing you to track its condition and location," Suarez explained.

From January to August 2024, there were a total of 1,135 cargo thefts, marking a 1% year-over-year increase. As trade between Mexico and the U.S. grows, Suarez anticipates that cargo theft will continue to rise. "The nearshoring trend in Mexico and Latin America, with increased manufacturing and trade in goods like auto parts, produce, and meat, has heightened the risk of cargo theft," he noted.

Source: FreightWaves