In a startling revelation, the FBI has dismantled a highly organised fraud ring that used counterfeit police credentials and X-ray technology to intercept mail in Los Angeles. The operation, which lasted several months, targeted checks, personal documents, and sensitive information.
How the Scam Worked
The fraudsters posed as law enforcement officers, flashing fake badges to gain access to US Postal Service facilities. Once inside, they used portable X-ray machines to scan mail, identifying high-value items such as checks and financial documents. These were then stolen and altered for fraudulent purposes.
Arrests and Investigation
Authorities arrested multiple suspects linked to the operation, including individuals with ties to organised crime. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the US Postal Inspection Service collaborated with the FBI to track down the culprits.
"This was a brazen and sophisticated scheme," said an FBI spokesperson. "The suspects exploited trust in law enforcement to commit their crimes."
Protecting Yourself
To avoid falling victim to similar scams, experts recommend:
- Using electronic payments instead of checks where possible.
- Monitoring bank statements for suspicious activity.
- Reporting any unusual mail delays to the postal service.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities warning that similar operations may exist in other cities.
