**Major Fuel Confiscation in Ensenada: Authorities Seize 2.1 Million Gallons of Stolen Gasoline**
In a significant operation in Ensenada, Baja California, authorities seized approximately 2.1 million gallons of gasoline believed to be stolen. The operation, executed on March 27 and publicized the following day, was triggered by a tip-off regarding suspicious activities at a location on the Rosarito-Ensenada highway, near El Sauzal.
The raid was a concerted effort involving the Army, National Guard, Navy, Federal Attorney General’s Office, and Pemex security teams. Armed with a search warrant, they uncovered an illicit fuel storage facility containing:
– 100 container boxes, each capable of holding 19,250 gallons.
– 46 tanker trailers, each carrying 8,200 gallons.
– 19 semi-trucks of various models.
– 12 fuel pumps of different capacities.
– 2 office trailers.
– A cistern with 1,050 gallons of urea.
The fuel seized amounts to about 2,098,000 gallons, which is enough to fill over 120,000 average car fuel tanks. The vehicles, containers, and gasoline are now under federal custody as investigations continue to trace its origin and identify those responsible.
Local sources have hinted at a connection to former senator Gerardo Novelo Osuna, but no official confirmation of his involvement has been made. The issue of fuel theft, known as “huachicoleo,” is widespread in Mexico, resulting in significant economic losses. This successful operation indicates progress in combating illegal activities and enforcing justice.
**Additional News: Fuel Theft in Mexico’s Wider Context**
Fuel theft continues to be a pervasive problem in Mexico, severely impacting the country’s economy. Despite efforts to curb this illegal activity, it remains a lucrative business for criminal organizations. Authorities have increased crackdowns in recent years, resulting in several successful operations; however, the challenges persist.
In other regions of Mexico, similar operations are being carried out to address this issue. Recent reports suggest ongoing collaborations between government agencies and fuel companies to enhance security and monitoring of fuel pipelines. These operations are pivotal in discouraging illegal siphoning and ensuring the legal distribution of fuel across the nation.
Efforts to tackle fuel theft are not only about reclaiming lost resources but also about safeguarding communities from the dangers associated with illegal fuel storage and transportation. The government continues to urge citizens to report suspicious activities and support initiatives aimed at eradicating “huachicoleo.”
Stay informed with TJGringo.com for updates on this story and other developments in Baja California.