**Authorities in Ensenada Seize Nearly 2.1 Million Gallons of Stolen Gasoline**
In a significant crackdown on fuel theft, authorities in Ensenada, Baja California have seized almost 2.1 million gallons of stolen gasoline. The operation took place on March 27 and involved a joint effort by various security agencies who acted on a tip-off from a concerned citizen. The suspicious activities were occurring at a location along the Rosarito-Ensenada highway near El Sauzal.
The coordinated raid involved the Army (Sedena), the National Guard, the Navy, the Federal Attorney General’s Office (FGR), and Pemex security teams. With a search warrant, these entities discovered an illegal fuel storage facility housing:
– 100 container boxes, each with a capacity of 19,250 gallons
– 46 tanker trailers, each carrying 8,200 gallons
– 19 semi-trucks
– 12 fuel pumps of varying capacities
– 2 office trailers
– A cistern with 1,050 gallons of urea
The total seized gasoline amounts to approximately 2,098,000 gallons, roughly equivalent to filling over 120,000 standard car fuel tanks. All items recovered, including vehicles and containers, have been placed under federal custody while an investigation is ongoing to trace the source of the fuel and identify those involved in the illegal scheme.
Although local reports have suggested ties to former senator Gerardo Novelo Osuna, his involvement has not been confirmed by officials. Fuel theft, known locally as “huachicoleo,” poses a significant challenge in Mexico and results in billions of dollars in losses.
**Secondary Article: Recent Developments in Fuel Thefts Across Mexico**
Fuel theft continues to be a pervasive problem across Mexico, negatively impacting the country’s economy and public safety. Authorities continue to intensify their efforts to combat the issue, as evidenced by recent crackdowns not only in Ensenada but also in other regions. Last month, a similar large-scale bust took place in the state of Guanajuato, where security forces dismantled a criminal ring involved in siphoning fuel from government pipelines.
The Mexican government has been investing in technology and infrastructure improvements to detect and prevent illegal fuel tapping. Additionally, increased law enforcement operations and community engagement programs aim to raise awareness about the implications of fuel theft. Despite these efforts, the complex nature of the networks involved in fuel theft presents ongoing challenges for authorities.
These operations highlight the ongoing commitment to combating fuel theft and signify hopeful progress in tackling this critical issue. As more cases come to light and authorities gain ground, there is hope for a future where such illicit activities are significantly reduced.