6 Arrested In LAX Theft Ring Bust

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Authorities Thursday announced the arrests of six people in connection with a sophisticated theft ring at Los Angeles International Airport.

The months-long investigation culminated Wednesday when officers with the LAX Joint Crime Task Force served 25 search warrants at several locations across the county and at the airport, specifically the Tom Bradley International Terminal and Terminal 4.

Detectives say the suspects — all of whom are current or former employees of companies contracted to airlines to provide baggage-handling services — rummaged through luggage and stole property.

A total of 14 people were detained for questioning, resulting in the arrests of six unidentified suspects.

Of those taken into custody, four were arrested for receiving stolen property and two were cuffed for outstanding warrants, Sgt. Belinda Nettles said.

"This is an ongoing investigation and will likely result in additional arrests," she added.

Numerous items including jewelry, electronics, clothing, and other personal belongings were recovered when officials searched the suspects' homes.

"These items are currently being identified in an attempt to return them to their owners," Nettles said.

Detectives were also working to link the suspects to specific theft cases.