PEMEX Platform Robbed in Campeche Raises Security Concerns

PEMEX has confirmed a robbery at its offshore Akal-R platform in the Cantarell extraction asset, located in the Bay of Campeche. The incident occurred on the night of Aug. 18, 2025, when unauthorized individuals boarded the structure and stole approximately 50 self-contained breathing apparatuses.

PEMEX immediately filed a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) and activated its emergency protocol in coordination with the Navy. The platform's security team and naval forces conducted searches but failed to locate the suspects. While there were no injuries, three employees received medical attention for nervous shock and were stabilized on-site.

A History of Security Breaches

The vulnerability of PEMEX infrastructure is a common industry concern, especially with regards to the risk of huachicoleo, which has remained a drain on the NOC’s coffers. However, more direct thefts have plagued the company, as offshore platforms belonging to service providers contracted by PEMEX have fallen victim to two robberies in which machinery of significant value has been stolen.

This latest incident underscores recurring vulnerabilities in PEMEX’s offshore operations. In early 2022, the Ku-S platform near Ku-Maloob-Zaap suffered a theft of around 20 breathing apparatuses, communication radios, and tools, valued at over MX$1 million (US$50,000). Around the same period, the offshore support vessel Crest Tarasco, operated by Protexa, was boarded and robbed of tools and equipment worth approximately US$74,500. Violent robberies have been present. In June 2022, armed groups targeted platforms managed by contractor Eyva and stole machinery at gunpoint. In 2025, the Zaap-D platform in Campeche sound also suffered a theft of radios, tools, and breathing gear, prompting heightened Navy patrols.

Data dating back to 2018 shows that over 100 pirate boardings occurred in Campeche sound, with only 36 interrupted by naval forces. These events reflect continuous security threats that have persisted despite calls for increased naval presence.

Industry stakeholders are increasingly alarmed by the frequency of these breaches. "These thieves seize equipment, tools, processed hydrocarbons," lawmakers noted, warning that persistent security lapses could inflict significant financial and operational damage.

Given the strategic importance of fields like Cantarell, the robustness of current surveillance and patrol measures is under scrutiny. Repeated incidents indicate possible insider knowledge or coordinated tactics, since pirates are familiar with crew routines, response times, and vessel layouts.