A Samsung plant in Brazil was raided by thieves last night, who made off with $6.3 million in products.
The robbery occured during the night shift. Workers and guards were subdued while the perpetrators spent more than three hours hauling cell phones and computers out of the factory, according to The Associated Press.
"They subdued the guards, took their weapons and their ammunition and told them to continue working as if nothing had happened," police Lieutenant Vitor Chaves told Globo television.
Police suspect about 20 heavily armed robbers participated in the raid. They had several trucks ready and waiting to move the contraband.
They are currently examining surveillance video from the São Paulo factory in an attempt to identify the thieves and already have suspects, according to Bloomberg.
Police also said that it was likely that the group had insider help.
The incident has not dramatically affected the South Korean company.
"It is regrettable the incident took place. However, it is fortunate that there were no casualties," Samsung said in a statement, according to Bloomberg. "The police are currently investigating the incident, and we will fully cooperate with the police authorities and will make utmost efforts to resolve this issue."
The company said that insurance will cover most of the costs related to the theft of the merchandise.
Samusung's stock was up Tuesday after the raid late Monday night and its new tablet is getting goodreviews, although the market for tablet computers is cooling off.
A number of other tech companies have facilities in Campinas, an area known for its industrial parks.
General Electric, Hewlett Packard and Dell have established some of their operations in the area. But what is often called the Brazilian Silicon Valley has also seen a spike in cargo thefts - from 425 in 2012, to 657 in 2013.
