**Massive Fuel Seizure in Ensenada: Authorities Confiscate Nearly 2.1 Million Gallons of Stolen Gasoline**
In a historic crackdown on illegal fuel activities, authorities have confiscated close to 2.1 million gallons of stolen gasoline in Ensenada, Baja California. The bust, one of the largest in recent memory, was conducted on March 27, following a tip-off from a concerned citizen about suspicious operations at a property along the Rosarito-Ensenada highway near El Sauzal.
The massive raid was a coordinated effort, bringing together forces from the Army (Sedena), the National Guard, the Navy, the Federal Attorney General’s Office (FGR), and Pemex security teams. Upon securing a search warrant, officials stormed the site and unveiled an elaborate illegal fuel storage operation which included:
– 100 container boxes, each with a capacity of 19,250 gallons.
– 46 tanker trailers, each carrying 8,200 gallons.
– 19 different models of semi-trucks.
– 12 fuel pumps of various capacities.
– 2 office trailers.
– A cistern with 1,050 gallons of urea.
Altogether, the seized fuel totaled an astounding 2,098,000 gallons, enough to fuel more than 120,000 average cars. The seized vehicles, containers, and gasoline have been placed under federal custody as investigations continue to unravel its origins and identify those involved.
Local media reports have tentatively connected the property to former senator Gerardo Novelo Osuna, though no official confirmation of his involvement has surfaced.
Illegal fuel theft, known locally as “huachicoleo,” remains a significant issue in Mexico, with losses totaling billions each year. This operation serves as a testament to the possibility of justice, maintaining hope for further progress in combatting this ongoing challenge.
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**Further Developments in the Battle Against Fuel Theft in Mexico**
Fuel theft continues to be a persistent issue across Mexico, and authorities are intensifying their efforts to tackle this escalating problem. In another recent incident, officials cracked down on a sophisticated fuel siphoning network near Puebla, where they discovered an intricate system of hidden pipelines used to steal gasoline directly from Pemex supply lines. These operations are part of broader efforts to dismantle organized theft rings operating throughout the country.
Moreover, the Mexican government has recently increased penalties for individuals caught engaging in fuel theft, aiming to deter such activities through stricter enforcement and harsher consequences.
As authorities continue to disrupt illegal fuel operations, efforts are also being focused on improving infrastructure security, employing advanced surveillance technologies, and fostering community cooperation to tip-off suspicious activities. These strategic actions are key elements in the ongoing fight against fuel theft, working to ensure the safety and integrity of the nation’s energy resources.