Mexico says it’s cracking down on fuel theft and critics say it underscores the depth of the problem

Mexico Cracks Down on Fuel Theft Networks

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico’s top prosecutor announced plans to order the arrests of more individuals involved in fuel theft networks between Mexico and the United States, including potential government officials.

Senior Mexican Navy Officer Arrested

Over the weekend, a senior Mexican navy officer, related to the former head of Mexico’s navy, was arrested along with 13 others connected to a massive fuel seizure in northern Mexico. This arrest signals the government’s efforts to combat fuel theft, known as huachicol, although critics argue that the problem runs deep.

Pressure from the United States

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently visited Mexico to discuss security issues and urged the Mexican government to crackdown on fuel theft, which has been a source of income for Mexican cartels. The detention of individuals involved in fuel theft comes shortly after this visit.

The Cost of Fuel Theft

Fuel theft is a significant issue in Mexico, costing the state-owned oil company Pemex billions of dollars in losses. The stolen fuel is either sold illegally within Mexico or smuggled in from U.S. border states like Texas without paying import taxes.

Corruption and Criminal Networks

Observers note that fuel theft networks require a high level of corruption within the government and businesses to operate successfully. The recent arrests highlight the extent of corruption within these networks, indicating a wider issue within Mexico.

Government Response

While Mexican officials claim these arrests are isolated cases, critics argue that the problem of fuel theft is deeply rooted in corruption within the government. The pressure from the United States has prompted the Mexican government to take more aggressive action against fuel theft.

Megan Janetsky, The Associated Press