Background on the Incident and Key Players
Ernesto Cuitláhuac Vásquez Reyna, a federal fiscal in Tamaulipas, was assassinated on August 4, 2022, in Reynosa. The Fiscal General de la República (FGR) has indicated that his murder is likely connected to retaliation from criminal organizations following a significant fuel theft bust in late July.
The Fuel Theft Operation
In late July, authorities collaborated in a joint operation to seize 1.8 million liters of stolen fuel, along with nine trucks, twelve pumps, 39 mobile storage tanks, three vehicles, two electrical generators, and one industrial street sweeper.
Government Response and Investigation
The FGR stated there is a “solid probability” that the delegate’s murder is related to the fuel theft crackdown. They emphasized that investigations are ongoing, and any new leads will be disclosed as they emerge.
The victim’s family has been informed and provided with continuous support, receiving updates on the investigation’s progress.
Security Gabinete’s Involvement
During a federal executive press conference, Mexico City’s President Claudia Sheinbaum explained that the Security Gabinete, comprising the Secretary of Citizen Security and Protection, FGR, National Guard, Sedena, and other federal agencies, would handle the case details.
Sheinbaum confirmed that the Tamaulipas State Fiscal and FGR had been in contact since the start to ensure justice for the delegate’s murder.
Furthermore, she mentioned that Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch had communicated with Tamaulipas Governor Américo Villarreal.
Details of the Assassination
The incident occurred around 18:00 on Bulevar Miguel Hidalgo, near Las Quintas neighborhood. Armed assailants intercepted the delegate’s vehicle, throwing a grenade inside a luxury black truck that immediately caught fire. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was Ernesto Cuitláhuac Vásquez Reyna? He was a federal fiscal in Tamaulipas.
- What is the significance of the fuel theft operation? Authorities seized 1.8 million liters of stolen fuel and related equipment, disrupting criminal organizations involved in fuel theft.
- Why is Vásquez Reyna’s murder linked to the fuel theft operation? The FGR suggests his assassination is likely retaliation from criminal groups due to the successful fuel theft crackdown.
- Who is involved in the investigation? The Security Gabinete, including FGR, National Guard, and Sedena, is handling the case.
- What details are known about Vásquez Reyna’s assassination? He was killed when armed assailants intercepted his vehicle, throwing a grenade inside and causing the truck to catch fire. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots.
