Prosecutors in Manhattan have exposed a sophisticated theft operation that resulted in millions of dollars in stolen goods, including precious metals and food products, bound for illegal sale on the black market. The criminal activity highlights the vulnerabilities in the supply chain, targeted by a hacking syndicate employing phishing schemes to achieve their thefts.
From October 2025 to April 2026, a group of individuals orchestrated the theft of goods valued at $4.5 million. Their pilfering included 25,000 pounds of cheese, truckloads of lamb, and nearly 40,000 pounds of beef. In addition to the food products, the crew stole $3.3 million worth of cigarettes and more than $266,000 in copper. Prosecutors allege these items were destined for illegal markets in New York City.
The authorities charged eight people, indicting them in connection with the scheme. The operation purportedly involved impersonating actual shipping carriers and brokers to exploit defrauded shipment information. According to Alvin L. Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, the rightful owners and shippers remained unaware until the thefts had been executed.
A hacking group assisted the crew by using phishing tactics to obtain shipment data. Businesses and shipping brokers, believing they were dealing with legitimate entities, were instead communicating with impostors. Armed with falsified invoices and trucks adorned with fake logos, the thieves retrieved their bounty from designated pickup points.
The alleged leader of the group, Murodullo Khasanov, aged 40, faces various charges alongside his accomplices, which include conspiracy in the fourth degree, among others. Ages of the group members range from their early 20s to early 40s. Three individuals have been arraigned, while other members face detention or extradition.
Similar black-market operations in previous years spotlighted the theft of retail goods. In 2024, several individuals were charged in Manhattan for possession of stolen merchandise valued at $1 million from stores like Macy’s and Ulta Beauty.
Hurubie Meko, a reporter for The Times, continues to cover criminal justice developments in New York, focusing on the Manhattan district attorney’s office and state courts.