**Massive Fuel Seizure in Ensenada: Nearly 2.1 Million Gallons of Stolen Gasoline Confiscated**
In a landmark fuel seizure operation, authorities in Baja California reclaimed approximately 2.1 million gallons of stolen gasoline in Ensenada. This operation, executed on March 27th, followed a citizen’s tip regarding suspicious activities at a site along the Rosarito-Ensenada highway near El Sauzal. The news was made public the day after the operation.
The coordinated raid involved the Mexican Army, National Guard, Navy, Federal Attorney General’s Office, and Pemex security teams. Armed with a search warrant, these forces discovered an illegal fuel storage facility, including:
– 100 container boxes, each capable of holding 19,250 gallons,
– 46 tanker trailers, each with a capacity of 8,200 gallons,
– 19 semi-trucks of various models,
– 12 fuel pumps of diverse capacities,
– 2 office trailers, and
– A cistern containing 1,050 gallons of urea.
The total seizure equates to about 2,098,000 gallons of gasoline, enough to fill over 120,000 average car fuel tanks. The seized vehicles, containers, and fuel are currently under federal supervision as investigations proceed to pinpoint the origin and individuals accountable for the operation.
Local reports have speculated on links between the property and former senator Gerardo Novelo Osuna, though no official confirmation of his involvement has surfaced. Fuel theft, known locally as “huachicoleo,” poses a significant economic threat in Mexico, with losses running into billions. This operation underscores the ongoing fight against this illicit activity, delivering a hopeful sign of justice.
—
**Secondary Article: Ongoing Concern Over Fuel Theft in Mexico**
The recent large-scale fuel seizure in Ensenada is a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against fuel theft, a crime that has plagued Mexico for years. Known as “huachicoleo,” this illegal activity has led to substantial financial losses, deeply impacting the nation’s economy. Despite government efforts to clamp down on fuel theft, the problem persists, driven by organized crime groups that exploit vulnerabilities in the distribution network.
In recent years, the Mexican government has ramped up efforts to fight fuel theft, implementing measures like increased surveillance of pipelines and stricter regulations on fuel transports. The involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies and coordination with Pemex security has led to several significant raids and arrests. However, the deeply-rooted nature of this illegal trade continues to challenge authorities.
As Mexico confronts this issue, the significant bust in Ensenada marks progress in the wider campaign. It illustrates the importance of vigilance and joint operations in tackling fuel theft. Authorities express hope that such concerted efforts will deter future criminal activities and help regain control over the nation’s fuel resources.
Stay up-to-date with the latest developments on this topic and much more at TJGringo.com.