FBI Announces Nationwide Crackdown on South American Theft Groups
February 7, 2025
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) today announced a nationwide crackdown on organized theft groups originating in South America. The operation, dubbed “Operation Tierra Firme,” is aimed at dismantling the criminal networks responsible for a surge in property crime, identity theft, and financial fraud across the United States.
“These groups are highly sophisticated and operate with a level of coordination that has allowed them to evade detection for far too long,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “This operation will bring their illicit activities to a screeching halt.”
Operation Tierra Firme has been in development for over a year and involves the collaboration of multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
According to the FBI, the South American theft groups have been targeting a wide range of victims, including individuals, businesses, and financial institutions. They employ a variety of tactics, such as:
- Residential burglaries: Breaking into homes and stealing valuables, such as jewelry, electronics, and cash.
- Commercial robberies: Targeting businesses, including retail stores, restaurants, and banks.
- Identity theft: Stealing personal information and using it to create fraudulent credit cards, open bank accounts, and file fraudulent tax returns.
- Financial fraud: Using stolen identities to access financial accounts and transfer funds without authorization.
The FBI estimates that the South American theft groups have caused billions of dollars in losses in recent years. In addition to the financial impact, these crimes have also had a significant psychological impact on victims, many of whom have lost their sense of security.
“These groups are not just stealing property,” said Wray. “They are destroying lives.”
Operation Tierra Firme will utilize a multi-pronged approach to combat the South American theft groups. This will include:
- Enhanced intelligence gathering: Collaborating with foreign law enforcement agencies and using advanced investigative techniques to identify and track the activities of the groups.
- Targeted arrests and prosecutions: Deploying specialized task forces to arrest and prosecute members of the groups, both in the United States and abroad.
- Financial disruption: Working with the financial sector to identify and freeze the assets of the groups.
- Public outreach: Educating the public about the tactics used by the groups and providing resources for victims.
The FBI is urging the public to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Anyone with information about the South American theft groups is encouraged to contact their local FBI office or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.
“We will not rest until these groups are brought to justice,” said Wray. “Operation Tierra Firme is a clear message to these criminals: your time is up.”
FBI Announces Nationwide Crackdown on South American Theft Groups
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