The Sunday Read: ‘The Great Freight-Train Heists of the 21st Century’

Cargo theft has become increasingly prevalent, resulting in billions of dollars in losses annually. Thieves target freight trains to steal goods, taking advantage of the lack of detection and surveillance. The internet has transformed the buying and selling of goods, making it easier for stolen items to be resold online. Law enforcement faces challenges in combating cargo theft due to the vastness of the rail network and the complexity of tracking stolen goods across borders. With the rise of e-commerce and intermodal rail transport, the vulnerabilities in the supply chain are being exploited by thieves.