U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Peace Bridge border crossing in Buffalo, New York, arrested Mokhtar Kazemi, a 33-year-old U.S. citizen, who was attempting to drive a stolen luxury vehicle into Canada.
According to CBP officials, Kazemi was stopped while driving a 2023 BMW XM valued at approximately $100,000. During an outbound inspection on August 20, officers noticed discrepancies with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) displayed under the windshield. The driver and vehicle were referred for further examination.
A secondary inspection confirmed through the National Crime Information Center that the BMW had been reported stolen in Baltimore, Maryland in May of this year.
“Thanks to the outstanding work of our CBP officers and their strict attention to detail, a stolen vehicle was recovered and will be returned to its rightful owner,” said Acting Area Port Director Sharon Swiatek. “Their quick action prevented the illegal export of stolen property and reinforces our commitment to secure our borders and support our law enforcement partners.”
Kazemi was taken into custody by CBP officers before being handed over to New York State Police for felony stolen vehicle charges.
CBP describes itself as America’s largest law enforcement organization and unified border management agency, with more than 65,000 personnel responsible for enforcing safe travel and trade while enhancing national security.
