Background on Ernesto Ruffo Appel and His Relevance
Ernesto Ruffo Appel, a former governor of Baja California serving from 1989 to 1995, has been implicated in a case of “huachicol,” which refers to the illegal siphoning and sale of fuel. The Fiscalía General de la República (FGR), Mexico’s attorney general’s office, has issued an arrest warrant against him.
Details of the Case
According to the FGR, Ruffo Appel is suspected of being involved in one of the large-scale fuel theft operations (megadecomisos) that have been targeted by federal authorities in northern Mexico over the past few months.
When questioned about these allegations against the former governor, current Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar acknowledged that the federal investigations include an ex-governor of the state. She emphasized that combating “huachicol” is part of the security strategy implemented by President Claudia Sheinbaum, and her administration will support federal authorities in their efforts.
Support from Political Allies
The Acción Nacional party in Baja California has expressed support for Ruffo Appel.
Lizbeth Mata Lozano, the local party leader, stated that Ruffo Appel has not received any judicial orders or notifications regarding accusations against him. She criticized the Morena party’s government for attempting to manipulate information and distract from the crisis facing politicians, governors, and businesspeople affiliated with Morena.
“Unlike Morena officials who hide behind legal immunity to evade justice, Acción Nacional and its members have always been transparent,” Mata Lozano asserted. She called for the investigations to reach those responsible for the illegal fuel trade.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Ernesto Ruffo Appel? Ernesto Ruffo Appel is a former governor of Baja California, serving from 1989 to 1995.
- What is “huachicol”? “Huachicol” refers to the illegal siphoning and sale of fuel, primarily gasoline, in Mexico.
- Why was an arrest warrant issued against Ruffo Appel? The Fiscalía General de la República (FGR) issued the warrant due to Ruffo Appel’s alleged involvement in large-scale fuel theft operations.
- What is the response from political allies? The Acción Nacional party in Baja California has supported Ruffo Appel, criticizing the Morena party’s handling of the situation and calling for a thorough investigation.
