News articles on Black Market Activities

Elevator mechanic smuggler leads to tighter security at LAX

An elevator mechanic at the Los Angeles Airport was recently arrested for assisting illegal immigrants bypass Custom checkpoints by using his airport security clearance. 

From the LA Times:

Officials said the improvements were made following the arrest of Roberto Amaya Canchola, 53, on Aug. 23 at LAX, where he has worked as an elevator mechanic for more than 20 years.
Authorities believe the North Hills resident smuggled in at least 15 illegal immigrants, including two with criminal records who had previously been deported. They suspect that he might be part of a larger smuggling ring that used him to gain access to restricted areas at LAX.

According to court records, Canchola allegedly used his airport security clearances and a key to terminal elevators to help illegal immigrants skirt customs and immigration checks after arriving aboard Mexicana Airlines flights.

All international passengers arriving at the Bradley terminal must go through the federal inspection service area, where their passports and baggage are checked by customs officials before the travelers are allowed into the United States.

Authorities at LAX has added additional security precautions after the arrest.  The officials declined to publicly state what those changes are. 

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Date
September 7th, 2008

Author
havocscope

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