Mexican Authorities Dismantle Multi-State Fuel Theft Network Arresting 32

Mexican authorities have dismantled a major fuel theft network operating in central Mexico, arresting between 32 and 43 suspects across coordinated raids in Mexico City, the State of Mexico, Querétaro, Hidalgo, and Coahuila after a six-month investigation. The criminal group, led by key figures including Cirio Sergio “N” and Luis Miguel “N,” siphoned fuel from Pemex pipelines, stored it in warehouses, and distributed it illegally to gas stations, while also allegedly forging documents and collaborating with some local officials. The operation resulted in the seizure of vast assets including up to 50 vehicles, 36 firearms, nearly 2 million liters of stolen fuel, approximately 16 million pesos in cash, and exotic animals such as a lion cub and jaguar cub, which were rescued and placed under federal care. President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that investigations are ongoing into potential collusion between criminal groups and Pemex employees or officials, emphasizing the government's commitment to transparency and accountability. Security Minister Omar García Harfuch highlighted the use of advanced intelligence and surveillance technologies to identify the criminal leaders, fuel extraction points, and distribution routes. This crackdown is part of a broader effort by Mexican federal and local authorities to combat fuel theft and related organized crime activities.