A group of men have been accused of stealing a significant number of Oculus VR headsets by targeting truck drivers at gas stations and truck stops. These thieves would wait for the drivers to leave their vehicles unattended and then drive off with the entire semi-truck, including the valuable goods inside. The stolen trailers were then connected to their own trucks, and the stolen vehicles were left behind.
This criminal activity took place in multiple states across the United States, with the thieves targeting distribution facilities and following semi-trucks to vulnerable locations. In one instance, two of the six co-conspirators stole a truck filled with Meta Oculus virtual reality headsets worth around $1.5 million. They drove the stolen truck to a different county, where they abandoned the original tractor truck and made off with the stolen trailer.
To avoid detection, the thieves would cover up any logos or identifying marks on the stolen trailer and use different license plates. It is alleged that the group targeted not only Meta but also other companies such as Microsoft, Sony, Logitech, JBL, and Bose, stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of products. The stolen goods were reportedly sold to a buyer in Florida for a fraction of their retail value.
This case highlights the importance of truck drivers taking extra precautions to prevent theft, such as ensuring their vehicles are always locked and never left unattended, especially in vulnerable locations like gas stations and truck stops. Law enforcement agencies are working to apprehend the individuals involved in these crimes and bring them to justice. The stolen goods not only represent a significant financial loss for the companies involved but also pose a risk to consumers who may unknowingly purchase stolen products. It is crucial for authorities to crack down on these criminal activities to protect businesses and consumers alike.