**Massive Fuel Seizure in Ensenada: Authorities Confiscate Nearly 2.1 Million Gallons of Stolen Gasoline**
In a major crackdown on fuel theft, authorities have seized nearly 2.1 million gallons of stolen gasoline in Ensenada, Baja California. The joint operation, carried out on March 27 and disclosed the following day, was initiated after a tip-off from a concerned citizen about suspicious activities at a location along the Rosarito-Ensenada highway, near the El Sauzal area.
A coordinated effort involving the Army, the National Guard, the Navy, the Federal Attorney General’s Office (FGR), and Pemex security teams led to the extensive raid. Equipped with a search warrant, the officials uncovered an illegal fuel storage site featuring:
– 100 container boxes, each with a 19,250-gallon capacity.
– 46 tanker trailers, each containing 8,200 gallons.
– 19 semi-trucks of various models.
– 12 fuel pumps of different capacities.
– 2 office trailers.
– A cistern holding 1,050 gallons of urea.
This operation netted about 2,098,000 gallons of gasoline—sufficient to fill more than 120,000 standard car fuel tanks. The seized vehicles, containers, and fuel have been placed under federal custody, with investigations ongoing to trace its origins and identify those accountable.
Reports suggest the property might be linked to former senator Gerardo Novelo Osuna, although officials have not confirmed any direct involvement. Fuel theft, often known as “huachicoleo,” is a significant problem in Mexico, causing billions in losses annually. This seizure is a considerable win in the fight against such crimes and serves as a reminder that justice, though delayed, is inevitable.
**Secondary Article: Fuel Theft’s Impact on Mexico**
Fuel theft continues to plague Mexico, with organized crime syndicates often at the helm. According to national reports, this illegal practice costs the economy billions each year and poses severe risks to public safety due to the dangerous methods used to steal and store fuel.
The government has been intensifying efforts to combat this issue, launching operations and initiatives aimed at both prevention and prosecution of offenders. Recent data indicates a gradual reduction in fuel theft cases, but the problem remains widespread.
The recent Ensenada operation marks one of the most significant busts in recent history, inspiring hope for further success in diminishing this costly criminal enterprise. The coordinated efforts of multiple government agencies play a crucial role in these successes, reinforcing the necessity for continued vigilance and cooperation.
For Mexico, tackling fuel theft is not just about economic losses but also about safeguarding national security and public safety, signaling that the fight against “huachicoleo” remains a top priority.