We would later learn that a thief had crept onto the tarmac and jogged alongside the aircraft as it rolled toward the taxiway at about 5 mph. The 727 was equipped with two cargo compartments, both on the right side of the aircraft. Both compartments are accessible by anyone of average height, and they were easily opened by pulling the handle out from the fuselage surface.

Source: Los Angeles Times December 17, 2018 12:22 UTC