Aeroflot Airlines Crew Suspected of Smuggling iPhones, iPads Worth $50 Million

An investigation conducted by the FBI, US Customs and Border Protection, the New York City Police Department, and other agencies has found that current and former Aeroflot Airlines employees helped smuggle $50 million worth of stolen iPhones, iPads, and more to Russia (via Business Insider).

According to the Department of Justice, a total of 10 crew members have been charged in connection to the plot. An inspection of crew members’ luggage found millions of dollars’ worth of electronic devices, “many of which” had been stolen, noted a release by the DOJ.

Eight suspects have been arrested while two others facing charges were described as fugitives. 

“As alleged, the defendants were members of an international smuggling ring that used a network of operators here and in Russia to circumvent US export laws and regulations,” United States Attorney Seth DuCharme said in the DOJ release.

The State Department has revoked 113 visas of Aeroflot employees in connection with the allegations.