Massive Huachicol Seizure in Guanajuato
Recently, security forces in Guanajuato made a striking discovery, seizing a staggering 120,000 liters of illicit fuel, commonly known as huachicol. This operation was precipitated by a citizen alert regarding irregular hydrocarbon extraction in the community of Juan Martín, located in the municipality of Celaya.
Details of the Operation
During their patrol on Hermanos Aldama Street, security agents encountered three individuals outside a property. At least one of them was armed with a long firearm. Upon noticing the officers, the suspects attempted to flee but were quickly apprehended.
Two individuals were arrested, while a third suspect escaped into nearby agricultural land. Upon inspection of the area, officers detected the unmistakable smell of hydrocarbons, leading to the revelation of four buried containers, each with a capacity of approximately 15,000 liters, filled with gasoline.
Additional Findings
Furthermore, authorities seized an additional 60,000 liters of huachicol stored irregularly at the site. The operation also uncovered a gray Ford Camaro and another long firearm, along with a carafe containing approximately 20 more liters of gasoline. The apprehended suspects were identified as Rolando “N” (32 years old) and Edwin “N” (18 years old).
Clandestine Extraction Confirmed
The report indicated that Pemex Physical Security personnel confirmed a clandestine extraction approximately 3.4 kilometers from the site, prompting closure of valves in the area. This is indicative of ongoing illegal operations that pose significant risks to both regional infrastructure and public safety.
Ongoing Investigations
In a parallel operation, authorities intercepted a tractor-trailer carrying roughly 63,000 liters of diesel along federal road 45, between Apaseo el Grande and Celaya. The driver and companion could not provide documentation for their cargo, resulting in their arrest. The detained individuals were identified as Vincent “N” (51), from Huehuetoca, State of Mexico, and Raul “N” (44), from Reynosa, Tamaulipas.
Legal Proceedings and Consequences
For safety and further investigation, the seized substances have been secured at the Storage and Distribution Terminal (TAD) of Pemex in Celaya. The detainees will be presented to the Attorney General’s Office of the Republic (FGR) for legal proceedings. The units impounded include a white Freightliner tractor-trailer, a gray tank-type semi-trailer, and a dolly without visible markings.
The larger context of these operations highlights the ongoing battle against huachicol, which poses significant challenges for authorities and local communities alike.