Navin Khanna Pleads Guilty in $600M Catalytic Converter Ring

Earlier this week, a man pleaded guilty in federal court in Oklahoma to running a catalytic converter theft ring that operated in multiple states. The story involves an auto parts store in New Jersey, thefts across several states, and over $600 million worth of stolen goods.

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The Scope of the Theft Ring

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the entire operation spanned from May 2020 to October 2022. During that time, Navin Khanna was able to make an insane amount of money by selling stolen catalytic converters to a refinery that would extract the precious metals.

As part of his plea deal, he turned over $4 million in cash, 11 luxury vehicles (that included a Lamborghini, a McLaren, and a Porsche), gold bars, high-end jewelry, real estate properties, and over 200 pallets of catalytic converters.

That is an incredible amount of loot from a two-year operation. What's more amazing is that there were still over 200 pallets of catalytic converters. Who knows how much longer this could have gone on, and how much money would have been made?

The ring operated in Oklahoma, Texas, New Jersey, California, and New York.

Amarillo’s Converter Theft Surge

Earlier this year, several news stories ran in the Amarillo area regarding the rise of catalytic converter thefts in the area. In early 2025, the expectation was that there would be several more instances of this type of crime.

To help combat these thefts, there are stamping events that happen from time to time. By going to one, you can help make it easier to recover stolen catalytic converters.

How to Protect Your Vehicle: Stamping Event Details

The Panhandle Auto Burglary & Theft Unit will be having a stamping event on August 13, 2025. It's a free event that will help protect your vehicle.

The event will be held at 13651 I-40 West Frontage Road in Amarillo from 11 AM to 4 PM.

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If you're not mixed up in organized crime shenanigans, then you're probably safe. But as the old adage goes, the more you know the better prepared you are.

Gallery Credit: Sarah Clark

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