Mexico cracks down on fuel theft and drug trafficking amid diplomatic shifts
Mexico has seen a busy week of diplomatic, economic, and security developments. Authorities cracked down on fuel theft and drug trafficking while advancing international partnerships. Meanwhile, ongoing investigations and public protests highlighted persistent challenges in crime and governance.
In Veracruz, Mexican officials dismantled a large-scale fuel theft operation in Minatitlán. The bust resulted in the seizure of 149 vehicles, 25 containers, 17 storage tanks, and 82,200 litres of stolen hydrocarbons. Separately, a clandestine aircraft carrying over half a tonne of cocaine was intercepted near Huamúchil in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, though no arrests were made.
The investigation into the assassination of Uruapan mayor Carlos Manzo progressed with three additional arrests. His widow also filed criminal complaints against three politicians from the ruling Morena party. The case remains under scrutiny as authorities piece together motives and connections.
On the diplomatic front, Mexico declined an invitation from former US President Donald Trump to join his Board of Peace. The decision came after Palestine was excluded from the group's first meeting. At the same time, the country expressed optimism about potential adjustments to the US's 50% tariffs on Mexican steel and aluminium, which could ease export pressures.
Economic cooperation took centre stage as Mexico and Canada began drafting a joint action plan. The initiative will focus on minerals, infrastructure, supply chains, and security collaboration. Meanwhile, the US announced a $40 million investment in CIMMYT, the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, to bolster crop research and pest early warning systems.
In Sinaloa, over 100 mothers of missing persons marched in Mazatlán to demand justice and draw attention to the region's escalating cartel violence. The protest underscored the human toll of Mexico's security crisis.
On the legal front, Mexico requested the extradition of the Jensen family from Utah, accusing them of involvement in fuel smuggling alongside Mexican criminal groups. The case highlights cross-border efforts to combat organised crime.
Finally, the government launched a new film tax incentive, offering productions a 30% income tax credit on qualifying expenditures in Mexico, with a cap of 40 million pesos per project.
The past week brought a mix of enforcement actions, diplomatic moves, and economic initiatives for Mexico. Fuel theft crackdowns and drug seizures showed ongoing efforts to tackle organised crime, while protests and extradition requests reflected unresolved challenges. Meanwhile, trade discussions and film incentives signalled steps toward economic growth and international collaboration.
