End of 'La Tía' network: Used Cali front to sell stolen iPhones abroad

Colombian authorities have dismantled a network allegedly involved in the international sale of stolen high-end electronics, arresting María Claudia Méndez Castaño, known as 'La Tía,' in Cali. The operation, conducted by the Sijín criminal investigation unit and the Fiscalía General de la Nación, resulted in the recovery of 15 iPhones, two laptops, and an iPad. These devices were reportedly destined for illegal sale through national and international connections. During the raid in the Terrón Colorado sector of Cali, investigators also seized a technical device capable of blocking cellular signals, used to prevent satellite tracking of the stolen items. Among the recovered devices was the stolen phone belonging to the husband of Palmira councilwoman Catalina Isaza Valencia. Preliminary investigations suggest 'La Tía' played a key role in collecting high-value mobile devices for a criminal structure with alleged international ties. The recovered iPhones were reportedly marked as lost or stolen. Brigadier General Sandra Rodríguez, commander of the Valle Police Department, stated that this arrest is a significant step in dismantling the organization responsible for the illegal trade of technology. Authorities are currently analyzing at least four formal theft complaints from Cali, Palmira, and Pasto that align with the network's modus operandi. Méndez Castaño faces charges related to the reception and trafficking of stolen goods.

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This detention represents an advance in the investigation to dismantle the criminal organization dedicated to the illegal commerce of technology.