Fuel Smuggling Probe Continues; Network Linked to Ex-Governor Called 'One of the Largest'

An investigation into a significant fuel smuggling network, allegedly involving former Baja California governor Ernesto Ruffo Appel, remains active, according to Omar García Harfuch, Mexico's Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection. The Federal Attorney General's Office (FGR) confirmed Ruffo Appel's arrest on charges of organized crime and fuel smuggling.

Harfuch explained that the investigation began after authorities seized 33 rail tank cars. The Specialized Prosecutor's Office in Organized Crime Matters (FEMDO) identified the network as one of the largest fuel smuggling operations discovered. The inquiry has been underway for more than a year.

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It is an investigation that stems from the seizure of the 33 ferrotanques. The analysis by the Specialized Prosecutor's Office in Matters of Organized Crime (FEMDO) manages to identify this network, which is one of the largest for fuel smuggling. It is an investigation of more than a year.

Eight arrest warrants were executed on Thursday, with more expected, indicating the investigation is ongoing. Harfuch detailed the alleged scheme: fuel was brought into Mexico, but only about 10% of the actual transported volume was reported, thereby evading fiscal controls and obligations.

"This is an ongoing investigation, it is not yet finished, but it is an investigation of more than a year by the Attorney General's Office of the Republic," Harfuch stated during a press conference led by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo. The case highlights the persistent challenge of fuel theft and smuggling in Mexico.

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This is an ongoing investigation, it is not yet finished, but it is an investigation of more than a year by the Attorney General's Office of the Republic.