Background on Claudia Sheinbaum and Her Role
Claudia Sheinbaum is the current Chief Executive of Mexico City, serving as the Head of Government since 2018. Previously, she was Mexico’s Secretary of Environment and served as a federal deputy for the Morena party. Her political career has been marked by advocating for environmental protection, social justice, and transparency.
Fuel Theft as a National Priority
In her daily morning press conference, Claudia Sheinbaum, alongside Omar García Harfuch, the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection, addressed the issue of fuel theft, classifying it as a top national priority to be eradicated.
Zero Tolerance for Involved Officials
Sheinbaum firmly stated that her administration will not protect any public official or business person involved in the illegal tapping and distribution of fuel. She emphasized that investigations will proceed according to evidence, ensuring accountability for anyone found guilty.
Traceability System Implementation
To combat fuel theft, Sheinbaum announced the implementation of a traceability system for fuel transportation. Each tanker truck or pipa will carry a QR code indicating the origin, destination, and permits of the transported fuel. This initiative will be carried out in collaboration with Pemex, the Tax Administration Service (SAT), the Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE), the Federal Consumer Prosecutor’s Office (Profeco), and the Secretariat of Energy.
Sheinbaum warned, “If a tanker lacks traceability while transporting fuel, it will be penalized, and a criminal investigation will be initiated.”
Ongoing Investigations and Coordinated Efforts
Omar García Harfuch explained that recent operations, including raids in Coahuila and seizures related to an illegal fuel-carrying vessel, are part of a nationwide coordinated investigation that has been ongoing for over six months.
“As we conduct raids and make arrests, the information expands. Some arrest warrants have already been executed, while others are still in process,” García Harfuch detailed.
Accountability Across All Levels
When questioned about the involvement of authorities at various levels in these illegal networks, García Harfuch stated that if any public servant is found responsible, they will face arrest without exception.
Organized Crime Involvement
García Harfuch also mentioned that organized crime groups, such as the Jalisco Cartel and Santa Rosa Cartel in Guanajuato, are involved in this type of crime. However, he clarified that a recent raid targeted an independent organization.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Who is Claudia Sheinbaum? A: Claudia Sheinbaum is the Head of Government of Mexico City and a prominent figure in Mexican politics, known for her advocacy for environmental protection and social justice.
- Q: What is the issue Claudia Sheinbaum addressed? A: Sheinbaum addressed fuel theft, classifying it as a top national priority to be eradicated.
- Q: What measures will be taken against involved officials? A: Sheinbaum stated that no protection will be given to any public official or business person involved in fuel theft.
- Q: How will fuel theft be tackled? A: A traceability system for fuel transportation will be implemented, with each tanker truck carrying a QR code indicating origin, destination, and permits.
- Q: How extensive are the ongoing investigations? A: The investigations have been ongoing for over six months and involve coordinated efforts across multiple states.
- Q: Will authorities at all levels be held accountable? A: García Harfuch confirmed that if any public servant is found responsible, they will face arrest without exception.
- Q: Which criminal groups are involved in fuel theft? A: García Harfuch mentioned organized crime groups like the Jalisco Cartel and Santa Rosa Cartel in Guanajuato.