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Surge in Train Robberies Disrupts North American Freight Operations 

By Dennis Wilmot


Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Does that make you smile or grimace? There is such nostalgia about the history of railroads in North America, even train robbers from the past can be considered heroes or at least not considered villains. But train robberies as depicted in those movies were from history and with all the security and technology today there is little to be concerned about now. Or is there? 


In 2024, North America's freight rail industry faced a significant challenge as organized train robberies surged, causing over $100 million in losses for major railroads. These thefts, primarily targeting high-value goods like electronics and apparel, have disrupted supply chains and raised concerns about rail security. 


Organized Crime and Sophisticated Tactics 

Criminal groups, including those linked to the Sinaloa Cartel, have been orchestrating heists on freight trains, especially in the southwestern U.S. Using tools like saws and bolt cutters, thieves breach containers and, in some cases, cut brake hoses to stop trains, facilitating the theft of goods such as Nike sneakers and gaming headsets. In one instance, authorities recovered over 1,000 pairs of unreleased Nike shoes valued at approximately $202,500. (Business Insider


Geographical Hotspots 

California and Arizona have been hotspots for these crimes. In January 2024, a BNSF train in

Arizona was targeted, resulting in the theft of more than 1,900 pairs of unreleased Nike sneakers. Eleven individuals, mostly undocumented migrants, were charged in connection with this heist. (AP News


Impact on the Rail Industry 

The Association of American Railroads reported a 40% increase in cargo thefts in 2024 compared to the previous year, with over 65,000 incidents. These thefts not only result in direct financial losses but also cause operational delays and increased security costs. (Trains, Association of American Railroads


Enhanced Security Measures 

In response, rail companies like Union Pacific have invested over $30 million since January 2023 in security enhancements, including surveillance technology, drones, and reinforced fencing. These measures have led to a significant increase in arrests leading to charges in areas like Los Angeles. (UP


Legislative Efforts 


To combat this trend, bipartisan legislation such as the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (CORCA) has been introduced, aiming to enhance federal coordination and law enforcement capabilities to address organized cargo theft. (Association of American Railroads


Theft within rail freight operations is no laughing matter. And thieves are not heroes but dangerous criminals that need to be apprehended and stopped.  As railroads continue to bolster security and collaborate with law enforcement, addressing the root causes and implementing comprehensive strategies remain crucial to safeguarding North America's freight operations. 

 
 
 

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