**Massive Fuel Seizure in Ensenada: Authorities Confiscate Over 2 Million Gallons of Illicit Gasoline**
In a significant crackdown on fuel theft, authorities in Ensenada, Baja California have seized nearly 2.1 million gallons of stolen gasoline. The operation, conducted on March 27 and disclosed a day later, was triggered by a tip-off about suspicious activities at a site on the Rosarito-Ensenada highway near El Sauzal.
The raid was a joint effort involving the Army, National Guard, Navy, Federal Attorney General’s Office, and Pemex security. Equipped with a search warrant, the team discovered a massive illegal fuel storage setup, which included:
– 100 large containers with a capacity of 19,250 gallons each.
– 46 tanker trailers, each holding 8,200 gallons.
– 19 semi-trucks of various models.
– 12 fuel pumps of differing capacities.
– 2 office trailers.
– A cistern containing 1,050 gallons of urea.
The confiscated fuel, totaling approximately 2,098,000 gallons, could fill over 120,000 average car fuel tanks. The confiscated vehicles, containers, and fuel are now under federal custody as investigations continue to uncover the source and identify the individuals responsible. Local sources have linked the site to former senator Gerardo Novelo Osuna, although his direct involvement has not been officially confirmed.
Fuel theft, or “huachicoleo,” has long plagued Mexico, causing substantial financial losses. This operation marks a significant achievement in combating this illegal activity, signaling progress towards eradicating such crimes.
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**In Other News: Closure of Major Highway Near Contaminated River**
In a related development, authorities have temporarily closed a major highway near the Tula River due to high contamination levels. Heavy rainfall caused the river to overflow, spreading pollutants onto the roadway. Emergency teams are working to clear the debris and ensure the area is safe for travel. The closure has caused significant traffic delays, and officials urge drivers to seek alternative routes while cleanup efforts are underway.
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