Train robberies seem outdated, but cargo theft remains a significant issue, impacting consumer prices. The Department of Homeland Security reports annual U.S. cargo theft costs between $15 billion and $35 billion. In 2025, the FBI noted cargo theft losses in the U.S. and Canada at nearly $725 million, a 60% increase from the previous year.
Law enforcement agencies are intensifying efforts to address this growing threat. Theft forces manufacturers to hike prices, which indirectly burdens consumers. In an exclusive CBS News report, federal agents, railroad police, and law enforcement across more than 24 states executed a coordinated operation aimed at curbing train and highway cargo theft using cutting-edge infrared drone technology.
Commander Michael Ware, leader of the Cook County Sheriff’s Police Organized Retail Crime and Cargo Theft Task Force, shared insights during a Chicago operation. Illinois ranks third for cargo theft cases, following California and Texas. Ware emphasized the advantages of infrared drones, “It’s like a third eye in the sky, helping us gain the upper hand.” These drones detect heat signatures, allowing operators to identify movements on tracks and relay details to ground officers.
Ware demonstrated a video showing individuals tampering with a cargo container holding electronics valued at $35,000. Upon spotting the perpetrators, law enforcement discreetly closes off exits without using lights or sirens. Even unsuccessful hiding attempts are thwarted by body heat detection. “Once confronted with drone footage, they realize they’re caught,” stated Ware.
Thieves target various goods from electronics like TVs and gaming consoles to sneakers and even cereal. They exploit slow-moving trains, swiftly breaking seals and loading stolen items into vans.
Ware explained that cargo theft thrives like narcotics trafficking due to its profitability. Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart emphasized its significance, stating, “Looting efforts displayed overwhelming organization on a considerable scale.”
With the holiday season imminent, Ware warns of increased prices affecting stolen goods. This report includes contributions from Callie Teitelbaum and Josh Peña.