**Massive Fuel Seizure in Ensenada: Authorities Confiscate Nearly 2.1 Million Gallons of Stolen Gasoline**
In one of the largest fuel crackdowns in recent memory, authorities in Ensenada, Baja California, have seized nearly 2.1 million gallons of stolen gasoline. This significant operation was successfully carried out on March 27, following a tip from a concerned citizen about unusual activities at a location along the Rosarito-Ensenada highway near El Sauzal.
The raid was a collaborative effort, involving the Army, National Guard, Navy, the Federal Attorney General’s Office, and Pemex security teams. Armed with a search warrant, these teams uncovered an illicit fuel storage site, which included:
– 100 large container boxes with the capacity to hold 19,250 gallons each.
– 46 tanker trailers, each loaded with 8,200 gallons.
– 19 semi-trucks of various models.
– 12 fuel pumps of different sizes.
– 2 office trailers.
– A cistern capable of holding 1,050 gallons of urea.
Overall, the confiscated fuel is estimated at 2,098,000 gallons – enough to fill over 120,000 average car fuel tanks. All the vehicles, containers, and gasoline are now under federal custody, with investigations ongoing to trace the source and hold those accountable.
Local media has suggested connections to a former senator, Gerardo Novelo Osuna, although no direct involvement has been confirmed by the authorities yet.
Fuel theft, commonly referred to in Mexico as “huachicoleo,” has been a long-standing issue, costing the country billions in losses. This operation signifies hope as a decisive blow against organized fuel theft, moving towards resolving this pervasive problem.
**Secondary Article:**
**Mexico’s Battle Against Fuel Theft Sees Major Victory with Ensenada Seizure**
The successful fuel seizure in Ensenada highlights Mexico’s ongoing struggle against widespread fuel theft. Known locally as “huachicoleo,” this illegal activity results in significant economic losses for the country each year. The recent operation, orchestrated through a multi-agency effort, underscores the Mexican government’s commitment to tackling this criminal enterprise head-on.
Over the years, fuel theft has been a complex challenge, mainly due to the organized crime networks often involved. However, coordinated efforts between the Army, Navy, National Guard, and state and federal agencies are beginning to show results, as demonstrated by this major confiscation of approximately 2.1 million gallons of stolen fuel.
This seizure is not just a law enforcement victory but a step toward restoring faith in public safety and reducing the economic impact of these illegal activities. As investigations continue, this operation could lead to dismantling further networks, ultimately reducing “huachicoleo” and its influence in Mexico.