A criminal network responsible for more than half of London's mobile phone thefts over two years has pleaded guilty. The Metropolitan Police have dismantled what they describe as the UK's largest mobile phone smuggling operation.
Gang Structure and Payments
The gang paid runners up to £300 for each stolen phone. Investigators believe the group smuggled nearly 40,000 stolen devices to China, where they were sold for as much as £4,000 each. The operation involved a sophisticated supply chain that connected street thieves, handlers, and international exporters.
Investigation Breakthrough
The case broke in December 2024 when police discovered a suspicious shipment of about 1,000 iPhones bound for Hong Kong at Heathrow Airport. This triggered Operation Echosteep, which brought in specialist detectives normally assigned to armed robbery and drug smuggling cases. Subsequent shipments were intercepted, and forensic evidence led to the identification of suspects.
Arrests and Seizures
On September 23, 2025, officers arrested Amir Muhammad Khadikhel, 35, and Ismat Miakhel, 33, in north-east London. Hundreds of stolen phones were found in their car, and an additional 2,000 devices were recovered from linked properties. A third man, Mansoor Mohammed, 30, was later arrested. In total, police have made 14 arrests, seized over 10,000 stolen iPhones, and recovered more than £250,000 in cash. Over 1,000 victims have been reunited with their phones.
Impact on Crime Rates
Mobile phone theft in London has dropped by 13,000 offences compared to the previous year. Commander Andy Featherstone stated that officers are targeting criminals at every level, from street thieves to international exporters, and are determined to dismantle entire networks.
Court Proceedings
The three men appeared at Southwark Crown Court and pleaded guilty to handling stolen goods and involvement in an organised crime group. They are scheduled to be sentenced on May 12.
