You can probably assume some of then were carrying live missiles. Thanks for the clarification 'Recover' as to the banding. You know that old saying, 'I've forgotten more than you know' really applies as you get older. I know now for sure I've forgotten more than I know right now.
I still think it's an urban myth, America stil has a free press. Something like that cannot be covered up. It's a good myth though, let's face it people thinking of stealing light aircraft would think twice about it and drug runners.