Authorities Seize 13,000 Liters of Stolen Fuel in Celaya Operation

Clandestine Operation Uncovered in Celaya

Authorities in Celaya, Mexico, recently uncovered a clandestine tap and seized 13,000 liters of stolen fuel, commonly known as 'huachicol.' This operation marks another significant effort in the ongoing battle against illegal fuel extraction and distribution networks that plague various parts of the country.

The Pervasive Problem of 'Huachicol'

Fuel theft, or 'huachicol,' remains a substantial challenge for Mexican authorities and the state-owned oil company, Pemex. This illicit activity involves tapping into pipelines to illegally extract and sell fuel, often by organized crime groups. In Mexico, 'huachicol' is considered the second most profitable operation for organized crime networks, trailing only narcotrafficking. The state of Guanajuato, where Celaya is located, is particularly affected by these criminal enterprises, with groups like the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel historically involved in fuel theft.

Government Efforts and Economic Impact

Federal and state authorities, including the Secretariat of Security, the Attorney General's Office, and Pemex security personnel, are routinely involved in operations to dismantle these illegal networks. These efforts often lead to the discovery of clandestine taps, the seizure of stolen fuel, and the securing of properties used for storage and distribution. For instance, in October 2025, a warehouse storing 'huachicol' was secured in Celaya, where a 30,000-liter tank was found, with investigations ongoing into nearby clandestine taps. Another incident in October 2025 saw state police in Guanajuato discover an abandoned tanker truck carrying 30,000 liters of stolen fuel.

The economic toll of fuel theft is considerable. Pemex reported losses of nearly $3.8 billion due to fuel theft between 2019 and 2024. In 2024 alone, Pemex lost approximately 17,000 barrels per day to fuel theft, despite increased surveillance and a reduction in the number of detected illegal pipeline taps. These figures underscore the persistent nature of the problem and the financial strain it places on the national oil company.

Conclusion

The seizure of 13,000 liters of 'huachicol' in Celaya highlights the continuous struggle against fuel theft in Mexico. Such operations are vital in disrupting the financial structures of organized crime and safeguarding national resources. Authorities continue to implement strategies aimed at curbing this pervasive illegal activity and mitigating its severe economic and social consequences.