The head of the Secretaría de Seguridad y Protección Ciudadana (SSPC), Omar García Harfuch, has announced the identification and dismantling of a major “huachicol fiscal” smuggling network. This criminal operation utilized shell companies, fraudulent documentation, and simulated commercial transactions to illegally introduce fuel into the country.
A Sophisticated Logistics Network
According to the Secretary, the cell focused on the theft of LP gas across several municipalities, including Jiquipilco, Polotitlán, Tepeji del Río, Tula de Allende, Atotonilco de Tula, and Cuautitlán Izcalli. The network’s extraction capacity in this region was estimated at up to 1.5 million liters of hydrocarbon per week.
The operation functioned through an integrated scheme that covered every stage of the process: illegal extraction, transport, storage, and final commercialization. To move the fuel, the group employed tankers, tractor-trailers, and ships.
Operational Takedown and Seizures
During the security operation, authorities secured 20 properties, 10 of which were gas stations found to be selling stolen fuel. A strategic clandestine tap used for extracting LP gas was shut down.
The network relied on “prestanombres” (straw men) and complex financial mechanisms to hide illicit resources. The fuel was moved from the clandestine tap to identified storage points and containers before being distributed to the public via shell gas stations and fueling centers.
Key Arrests and Roles
Seven individuals were detained as part of the operation. Among them was the leader, Mauricio “N”, who served as the logistical and financial operator coordinating the shipment of stolen hydrocarbons.
Other key figures include Jorge “N”, who managed several gas stations used for money laundering; Joaquín Arturo “N”, a businessman and lawyer who served as a logistical and financial command; and Julio César “N”, who organized initial extractions and provided tankers.
Lorenzo Javier “N” was arrested; as a gas station owner, he was responsible for invoicing the stolen fuel to provide a facade of legal compliance.
Ongoing Operations in Sinaloa
Separately, Secretary García Harfuch reported that the Gabinete de Seguridad, led primarily by the Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (Defensa), has been conducting operations since the morning in Badiraguato, Sinaloa, and surrounding areas.
While the Secretary confirmed that You’ll see already detainees from these actions, he stated that the arrest of “El Guano,” the brother of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, has not yet been confirmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the “huachicol fiscal” network hide its activities?
The network used shell companies, “prestanombres,” false documentation, and simulated commercial operations to give the appearance of legality to their transactions and laundry their illicit resources.
Which regions were most affected by the LP gas theft?
The criminal cell operated in the municipalities of Jiquipilco, Polotitlán, Tepeji del Río, Tula de Allende, Atotonilco de Tula, and Cuautitlán Izcalli.
What was the scale of the fuel extraction?
The network had an estimated extraction capacity of up to 1.5 million liters of hydrocarbon per week in its area of operation.
Do you believe the use of shell companies makes fuel smuggling harder to combat than traditional theft?
