By: Richard L. Smith
Federal authorities say more than 600 stolen vehicles have been intercepted at the Port of New York and New Jersey before they could be shipped overseas.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials, the vehicles, valued at approximately $36 million, were stolen from communities in New Jersey and other parts of the country.
Authorities said many of the vehicles were discovered inside shipping containers and were destined for buyers in West Africa and the Dominican Republic.
Federal investigators say organized theft networks are behind many of the crimes, with some vehicles stolen after thieves break into homes searching for key fobs.
Officials said the operation is part of an ongoing effort involving federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to disrupt vehicle theft and trafficking networks operating through the region’s ports.
Authorities are reminding residents to keep vehicles locked, secure key fobs inside their homes and park in well-lit areas whenever possible.