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Historically, fuel-related crimes such as pipeline tapping and theft have been persistent problems along the US-Mexico border and in underserved communities. Despite the danger and societal cost, the Treasury did not view these activities as a top priority until recently. However, the severity of the issue has pushed it onto the agency's radar.
The Human Toll and Environmental Threats
The illicit tapping into pipelines, often performed repeatedly in vulnerable areas, has led to catastrophic consequences. Notably, these activities have caused massive explosions that devastate communities, leading to loss of life and destruction of property. These incidents are well-documented, with historical examples demonstrating the dangers posed by unregulated pipeline activities.