Background on the Relevance of the Seizure
In a significant operation against illegal activities, Mexican federal and state authorities have successfully shut down an unauthorized refinery in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz. This clandestine operation was producing alternative diesel, light naptha, solvents, and treated oils or light fuel oil without the necessary permits. The refinery posed a considerable risk to local ecosystems and communities.
Who is Omar García Harfuch?
Omar García Harfuch is the Secretary of Security for Mexico. His role involves overseeing and coordinating security efforts across the country, including counterintelligence and logistical support for state-owned enterprises like Pemex (Mexico’s national oil company).
Key Actions and Impact
- Identification of the Illegal Operation: Authorities used field intelligence and aerial surveillance to identify the clandestine refinery in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz.
- Joint Efforts: The operation was carried out by the Security Cabinet and Pemex’s Coordination and Logistical Intelligence Management, demonstrating collaboration between federal and state entities.
- Execution of a Search Warrant: Authorities served a search warrant, leading to the seizure of over 500,000 liters of crude oil and infrastructure intended for the illicit fuel market.
- Additional Seizure in Nuevo León: In a separate but related operation, authorities seized 1.2 million liters of illicit hydrocarbons in Allende, Nuevo León.
Details of the Seizure in Nuevo León
The illegal storage of hydrocarbons in Allende, Nuevo León, took place on a property on Calle Progreso in the El Maguey neighborhood. The operation, which lacked proper safety measures, posed a significant risk to the local population.
After gathering evidence, prosecutors obtained a search warrant from a control judge. During the operation, authorities seized:
- 1 tractor-trailer
- 10 tanker trucks
- 10 large mobile containers
- 6 cylindrical tanks
- 2 mil-liter drums (each)
- 1 200-liter drum
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of this seizure? This operation disrupts illegal fuel production, protecting local ecosystems and communities from the associated risks.
- Who were the key players in this operation? The Security Cabinet and Pemex’s Coordination and Logistical Intelligence Management collaborated to execute the search warrant.
- What was seized in Nuevo León? Authorities confiscated 1.2 million liters of illicit hydrocarbons, along with various vehicles and containers used for transporting and storing the fuel.
