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Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Pittsburgh theft ring dismantled; seven charged including pawn shop owner

State AG
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Attorney General Michelle Henry | Official Website

Attorney General Michelle Henry has announced charges against seven individuals associated with the "Six Figure Boys," a group involved in retail theft and firearms trafficking based in Pittsburgh. Among those charged is Osman Muya, a pawn shop owner accused of purchasing and reselling stolen items from these activities.

The charges are the result of an investigation conducted by the Office of Attorney General in collaboration with local police departments, following a presentment from the 51st Statewide Investigating Grand Jury. The investigation employed various tactics, including digital communication tracking, surveillance, and undercover operations.

Osman Muya is alleged to have played a central role in the operation. Law enforcement recovered eight firearms believed to be illegally purchased or transferred, along with more than $120,000 in cash from Muya. Additionally, stolen goods such as Apple iPhones and other electronics were found in new condition.

"Stopping this elaborate illegal trafficking network was the product of great law enforcement collaboration steered by our Organized Crime Section," stated Attorney General Henry. She praised the grand jurors for their dedication over several months of testimony regarding the group's criminal activities.

Muya faces felony charges for corrupt organizations, organized retail theft, conspiracy, and related offenses. Other individuals charged include Rami Hamdan-Toto, Alhassane Barry, Viane Hakizimam, Trey Da’Quan Carlock Bell, Mukamba Adelin, and Rimon Toto. Each faces charges of conspiracy among other offenses linked to their roles within the organization.

Rami Hamdan-Toto is identified as a leader within the network who directed others' actions and faces additional charges concerning illegal firearm transfers. Alhassane Barry also faces similar firearm-related charges.

A district judge recently arraigned Muya, Hamdan-Toto, and Barry without bail due to concerns they pose a threat to the community. Meanwhile, Bell and Hakizimam remain at large.

The group operated primarily out of Pittsburgh's Northview Heights neighborhood. They specifically targeted high-value items like Apple products at stores with minimal security presence.

Prosecution will be handled by the Office of Attorney General’s Organized Crime Section. All defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty in court proceedings.

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