Special to the Herald

EFFINGHAM COUNTY -- The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with multiple agencies, seized $1 million in stolen items during a cargo theft investigation.

The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division (CID) executed a search warrant at AA Auto Shipping, TMM International INC, 109 Commerce Ct. in Rincon on Feb. 27.

Investigators seized a large quantity of stolen palletized cargo, including cell phones, exercise equipment/parts (Peleton) and food stuffs. Investigators are currently inventorying the seized property and removing it for safekeeping with the assistance of Shaw Industries of Port Wentworth. The preliminary estimated value of the seized property is approximately $1 million.

The operation was the culmination of a joint investigation conducted by the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division (CID), Georgia Cargo Theft Intelligence Group, Georgia Ports Authority Police Department, and the Bureau of Industry and Security.

“The main factor for the success of this operation is the continued cooperation amongst all agencies,” says Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie.

No one has been arrested or charged at this time. ECSO said the investigation is continuing.