Company Linked to CJNG Transferred Millions to Fuel Smuggling Operation

Ahavat Logistics Solution, a company identified as being linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and previously sanctioned by the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), transferred 28 million pesos to a firm involved in fuel smuggling. This operation has been a client of U.S. companies that handled shipments for the "huachicolero" (fuel smuggling) vessels Challenge Procyon and Torm Agnes.

In June, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned nine entities and two Mexican citizens connected to fuel smuggling operations tied to the CJNG, including Ahavat Logistics Solution. Financial records from Tamaulipas's Secretariat of Finance reveal that in October 2024, the state agency requested JSC Servicios Aduanales S.A.S. de C.V. to clarify the origin of 100 deposits totaling 28.2 million pesos made by Ahavat Logistics Solution in 2021.

Further investigation by Reuters indicates that JSC Servicios Aduanales is associated with Ikon Midstream, a Texas-based oil marketer. Mexican government sources suggest Ikon Midstream is under investigation for fuel smuggling linked to the CJNG. U.S. authorities raided the Houston-based company's offices in April. JSC Servicios Aduanales is described as Ikon Midstream's alleged commercial partner in Mexico, responsible for importing petroleum products. The company was involved in importing 11 million liters of diesel into Mexico via Guaymas and Ensenada ports in March 2025, disguising the fuel as oils and lubricants to evade regulations.