Fuel Theft Increased by 500% in Six Years: Moreira Denounces Morena's Inaction

In a recent statement, the coordinator of the federal deputies of the PRI, Rubén Moreira, revealed that fuel theft has increased by more than 500% in the last six years.

This figure calls into question the effectiveness of the policies implemented by the Morena government to combat fuel theft in Mexico.

According to official data, during the year 2023, there were 14,890 illegal taps recorded in Pemex pipelines. This represents a 6.7% increase compared to the previous year and surpasses the figures reported in 2018.

Consequences of Ineffectiveness

This sustained growth demonstrates the current government's inability to curb this illicit activity that severely affects the national economy. There are plenty of promises and measures announced by Andrés Manuel López Obrador's administration to eradicate fuel theft, such as the deployment of the National Guard and the closure of pipelines. But it is clear that their strategies are ineffective, as the problem persists and has even worsened. Experts point out that these actions have been insufficient and lack a comprehensive strategy to address the roots of the crime.

Besides the economic impact, fuel theft has caused human tragedies, such as the one in Tlahuelilpan, Hidalgo. Let's remember that in 2019, an explosion at an illegal tap claimed the lives of more than 130 people.

A Call to Action

This unfortunate event should have been a wake-up call to strengthen actions against fuel theft. However, the current figures show the opposite and the numbers don't lie despite what the former president may say.

The ineffectiveness of the Morena government in this area not only affects public finances but also endangers the safety of communities near the pipelines. It also fosters corruption at various levels, which is not surprising when talking about our government. It is imperative to implement more effective policies and strengthen the institutions responsible for combating this crime.

The alarming increase in fuel theft over the last six years reflects a lack of political will and adequate strategies on the part of the Morena government. We need a change of course that prioritizes the country's energy security and confronts this scourge that causes so much harm to Mexico.