How 'largest phone smuggling network' was uncovered
Summary
The Metropolitan Police uncovered what they believe to be the UK's largest phone smuggling network after a stolen mobile phone was tracked to a warehouse near Heathrow airport. Police arrested three men linked to the operation, seized over 5,000 stolen phones worth around £5.5 million, and sentenced the suspects to prison for their roles in the organized crime group.Key Facts
- A stolen phone was tracked by its owner to a warehouse near Heathrow, leading to a police investigation.
- Over 800 stolen phones were found initially, wrapped in foil or bubble wrap, ready to be shipped to Hong Kong.
- Operation Echosteep was launched involving specialists in armed robbery and drug smuggling.
- Police arrested Amir Muhammad Khadikhel, Ismat Miakhel, and Mansoor Mohammed linked to the network.
- More than 5,000 stolen phones worth about £5.5 million were seized during the investigation.
- Stolen phones were hidden in unusual places like a shop basement trapdoor and inside a microwave.
- Khadikhel and Miakhel were sentenced to nine and nine-and-a-half years in prison; Mohammed received six-and-a-half years.
- The crime involved removing SIM cards to prevent tracking and used social media to recruit phone thieves.
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