Mexico Busts Fuel Theft Ring, Arrests 43, Seizes 2 Million Liters

Mexican authorities have dismantled a significant fuel theft network in a coordinated operation resulting in 43 arrests across Coahuila, Queretaro, Mexico City, and the State of Mexico. The raids, conducted by federal and local security forces, mark one of the largest hydrocarbon seizures in recent years, with nearly two million liters of illicit fuel recovered.

Security Minister Omar García Harfuch detailed the operation during a press briefing, highlighting a six-month investigation targeting a criminal group engaged in the illegal extraction and distribution of fuel in central Mexico. Authorities carried out 13 raids, seizing high-end vehicles, drug shipments, firearms, and approximately MX$16 million in cash, in addition to the illicit fuel.

Key leaders of the criminal cell were among those arrested, including Cirio Sergio “N,” identified as the mastermind behind the operation, and Luis Miguel “N,” believed to be responsible for coordinating fuel transportation routes. Exotic animals, including jaguar and lion cubs, were also rescued from properties linked to the group.

In the State of Mexico, multiple sites were raided, including a restaurant used as a front for fuel storage and logistics. In Queretaro, additional suspects were captured, including Heréndira “N,” allegedly involved in financial operations and collaboration with local authorities. The Coahuila raid was linked to a fuel tanker seizure in Tamaulipas in March, highlighting the operation's national scope.

García Harfuch stressed that dismantling these networks strikes at their financial infrastructure and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating fuel theft and impunity through coordinated efforts at the federal and local levels.