Okay. Tracking would have been a good reason to take the batteries out...
This generation of "Trac Phone" does not have all the GPS bells and whistles. They are virtually invisible to tracking, unless you know the code of the phone. If they are used abroad, and we know the codes, they can then be intercepted, but only as to which cell tower is being used.
Actually, the battery thing is more a function of shipping regulations for cell phones. The battery must be removed, but can be in the same package.
I think the phones were destined for the Middle East. There is no doubt in my mind, but unless they can prove that the recipient is a terrorist, (which they obviously cannot), the perps must be released as the act is legal.