6 famous million-dollar Apple product theft cases

iPhones, MacBooks, and other Apple products are often targeted by criminals due to their high value, ease of resale, and desirability. Numerous theft cases involving these products have occurred, resulting in millions of dollars in losses.

Theft and Fraud of iPhones ($28 Million)

In September 2022, a group of seven individuals, known as the “Clear Gods,” was arrested in Detroit, USA, for orchestrating the largest iPhone theft and fraud operation in history. This group managed to amass a staggering $28 million within just two years. In addition to directly stealing iPhones from stores, the group also utilized stolen personal information to make purchases and resell iPhones, with the assistance of Apple Store employees. Overall, the Clear Gods carried out 26,000 transactions. As of now, the case has not yet been brought to trial.

Miami Airport Heist ($6.8 Million)

In October 2016, eight individuals were accused of using a tractor-trailer to rob a warehouse at Miami Airport (USA), stealing 23,000 units of iPhone 5S and 6S. The total value of the stolen goods amounted to $6.8 million. The court had to split the case into two trials, one for the theft from the airport and the other for the disposal of the stolen iPhones. Seven out of the eight defendants pleaded guilty, while the eighth person, who was an Uber driver, was released in early 2018.

Apple Product Truck Heist ($6.6 Million)

In November 2020, a highly organized gang in the UK carried out a daring robbery, targeting a truck transporting Apple products worth $6.6 million. The suspects restrained the driver and security personnel before transferring the goods onto other trucks. Despite the arrest and interrogation of six individuals, the case remains unsolved.

Warehouse Theft in Belgium ($3 Million)

In November 2009, two years after the launch of the iPhone, a group of thieves in Belgium stole approximately 3,000-4,000 units of iPhone 3G and 3GS, with a total value of three million USD, from a warehouse belonging to CEVA Logistics in Willebroek. They gained access by creating a hole in the roof of the warehouse. Despite the stolen iPhones later appearing in the black market in Russia, the group responsible for the theft has not been apprehended.

iPad Mini Theft at JFK Airport ($1.9 Million)

In November 2012, an airport employee at JFK International Airport was arrested for accessing cargo forklifts and stealing 3,600 iPad Mini devices, valued at $1.9 million. The individual was subsequently convicted and sentenced to two years in prison.

Break-ins at Apple Stores in California ($1 Million)

Two major theft rings targeting Apple stores in California were disrupted in September 2018 and February 2023, resulting in losses exceeding one million USD in each case. In the first incident, 17 individuals were arrested for carrying out a series of thefts at Apple stores over several months, notably including a break-in at the Palo Alto store just hours after Apple CEO Tim Cook’s visit. The second case led to the arrest of eight individuals. Currently, there is no publicly available information regarding their trials.