Nine arrested in San Bernardino over organized train heists

San Bernardino County officials confirmed the arrest of nine individuals linked to the Sinaloa Cartel for their roles in a series of organized thefts from BNSF Railway trains. The suspects, all Mexican nationals, were booked into the Central Detention Center on charges that include conspiracy and theft of railroad property.

Sheriff’s deputies spent twelve months tracking the group and the vehicles they used to target rail cars. The operation resulted in the loss of millions of dollars in merchandise. The investigation concluded on Friday, Oct. 16, when officers executed a search warrant at a residence in the 1200 block of East 25th Street. The property is located near the intersection of North Harrison Street and East Marshall Boulevard.

Inside the home, authorities found more than $333,000 worth of stolen items. The recovered inventory included JBL speakers, Logitech computer hardware, and clothing from Victoria’s Secret, Nike, and New Balance. Deputies also seized four semiautomatic handguns, a surveillance drone, and a large amount of cash. Tools used to break into the train containers were taken along with four vehicles linked to recent burglaries. Fentanyl was also found on the premises.

The nine men in custody range in age from 18 to 43. The group includes Jose Navarrete, Brian Iran Fontes-Carrillo, Mauro Ruiz-Medina, Pastor Pena-Lerma, Alfredo Covarrubias-Navarrete, Jose Alfredo Castillo-Baca, Jose Ismael Palafox-Bernal, Cesar Daniel Navarrete-Martinez, and Cristian Erubiel Navarrete-Zapien. Officials have not released photographs of the suspects.

The sheriff’s department is asking the public for help in identifying other stolen goods or witnesses. Residents can submit anonymous tips by calling or texting the word REPORT to 844-909-3006. The department also accepts reports through its online portal.