Scam At Texas Mall Now Linked To Massive Cartel Operation

Katy, Texas is a very pleasant bedroom community just west of Houston, and the type of sleepy town where you honestly hope nothing ever happens because you are looking for a peaceful place to raise your family. Recently four men were captured after they were spotted allegedly stealing thousands of dollars in merchandise from the Katy Mills Mall, and as the investigation continued, details began to indicate a Mexican cartel ran scam likely worth more than $100 million with hundreds of operatives.

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According to this KHOU article, police believe the complex theft ring would target shopping malls in large cities, and while staying in short term rentals, they would snatch as many valuable items as possible before moving onto the next target city.

Scam At Texas Mall Now Linked To Massive Cartel Operation

In the past, Cartels along with other terrorist organizations have often engaged in the production and distribution of counterfeit high fashion and name brand items to fund everything seedy you can possibly imagine. That is why people are always cautioned to not buy knock off apparel because the money often goes directly to the worst possible conditions on Earth like human trafficking.

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The stolen merchandise appears to be sent to Laredo, and is an important component in a money laundering scheme that perpetuates the criminal reach of the cartel. Hopefully identifying these nearly 100 suspects will lead to a meaningful impact on keeping people safe.