Metropolitan Police dismantle alleged international phone-smuggling ring
The Metropolitan Police in London say they have uncovered and disrupted an alleged international smuggling network that trafficked stolen mobile phones, primarily Apple iPhones, out of the UK. The operation — described as the largest action against phone theft in the UK to date — led to 46 arrests and the seizure of thousands of devices.
Key facts
- Estimated scale: up to ~40,000 stolen phones linked to the ring (police estimate).
- Arrests: 46 people detained during the raids.
- Seizures: thousands of devices recovered, including reports of ~2,000 phones found in one vehicle and ~1,000 iPhones in a warehouse near Heathrow.
- Direction of smuggling: many phones reportedly headed to China for resale.
- Impact: police estimate the gang may have been responsible for a large share of phone thefts in London.
What happened
Officers executed coordinated raids across London, seizing large quantities of mobile phones — some reportedly wrapped in aluminium foil to hide them — and making multiple arrests. The investigation indicates a structured network that profited from quickly moving stolen handsets to international buyers.
Sources & further reading
- WTOP — UK police uncover gang suspected of smuggling thousands of stolen phones to China
- UPI — London police: gang smuggling stolen phones to China
Related: Buy legitimate iPhones
If you’re shopping for a new iPhone, here’s a US Amazon search link (affiliate) for iPhone models: Search iPhone 15 on Amazon (affiliate). Buying from reputable retailers helps reduce demand for stolen devices.
Questions for readers
What more should police, retailers, or manufacturers do to curb phone theft and resale? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Note: This post aggregates reporting from public news outlets. If you have tips related to the case, contact the Metropolitan Police.