**Massive Fuel Seizure in Ensenada: Nearly 2.1 Million Gallons of Stolen Gasoline Recovered**
In a significant crackdown on fuel theft, authorities have seized almost 2.1 million gallons of stolen gasoline in Ensenada, Baja California. The operation, executed on March 27 and announced the next day, followed a tip-off regarding suspicious activities at a site near the Rosarito-Ensenada highway, in the vicinity of El Sauzal.
This well-coordinated raid involved multiple agencies, including the Army, National Guard, Navy, the Federal Attorney General’s Office, and Pemex security teams. Equipped with a search warrant, officials discovered a massive illegal fuel storage operation. The site housed a range of equipment including:
– 100 container boxes, each with a capacity of 19,250 gallons
– 46 tanker trailers, each holding 8,200 gallons
– 19 semi-trucks of varying models
– 12 fuel pumps of different capacities
– 2 office trailers
– A cistern containing 1,050 gallons of urea
The total haul was equivalent to filling over 120,000 average car fuel tanks. The seized vehicles, containers, and gasoline are now under federal custody as investigations continue to trace the fuel’s origin and identify those involved. Although local sources have pointed to a possible connection with former senator Gerardo Novelo Osuna, no official confirmation of his involvement has been made.
Fuel theft, also known as “huachicoleo,” is a significant issue in Mexico, causing substantial financial losses annually. This operation marks a critical step in combatting the problem and seeking justice.
**Related News: Crackdown on Fuel Theft Across Mexico**
In light of the recent massive fuel seizure in Ensenada, authorities across Mexico are intensifying efforts to combat fuel theft. Recent operations in various regions have resulted in the retrieval of thousands of gallons of stolen fuel and multiple arrests. Security agencies are deploying advanced technologies and intelligence to track and dismantle fuel theft networks. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to protect the country’s energy resources and ensure a stable supply to consumers. With fuel theft costing the Mexican economy billions annually, the government is committed to stricter enforcement and tougher penalties for those involved in these illegal activities.