Eight people have been taken into custody by federal authorities concerning a massive smuggling operation that allegedly used the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to bring illegal and counterfeit goods into the United States from China.
It is estimated that the scheme, which involved dishonest truck drivers, warehouse owners, and logistics firms, smuggled at least $200 million worth of goods. The lead orchestrator, another defendant, is still at large and is believed to be in China. The defendants are accused of breaking customs seals, smuggling, and conspiracy, among other offenses.