Manhattan Cosmetics Store Indicted for Operating Fencing Operation with Over $1 Million in Stolen Goods

Two individuals, Bibi Rehana Khan, 54, of Mount Vernon, and Aaron Khan, 40, of the Bronx, along with their business, Rehana’s Cosmetics, have been indicted for allegedly running a Manhattan cosmetics store that served as a front for a fencing operation. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office revealed that the store, located at 870 6th Avenue, was a well-known destination for stolen goods obtained through shoplifting.

During a raid conducted in January, investigators discovered an extensive collection of stolen merchandise at Rehana’s Cosmetics and two storage units on Broadway. The recovered items included beauty supplies, medicine, vitamins, grooming devices, clothing, handbags, backpacks, kitchenware, appliances, Legos, toys, coffee machines, and vacuums. The total value of the stolen goods, packed in 450 cardboard boxes, exceeded $1 million. Notably, over $200,000 worth of merchandise was traced back to Macy’s, with the remainder allegedly stolen from various retailers such as CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, Duane Reade, Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works, the NHL store, and Ultra Beauty.

The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has charged Bibi Rehana Khan, Aaron Khan, and Rehana’s Cosmetics with three counts of criminal possession of stolen property. District Attorney Alvin Bragg emphasized the impact of retail theft on local businesses and the safety of employees and customers. He stated that proactive investigations into those profiting from retail theft, including disrupting fencing networks, are crucial in addressing the root causes of this issue. Bragg also highlighted the office’s commitment to holding recidivists accountable for their involvement in significant retail theft.