Part 2/7:
At the heart of this scheme are cartel-linked groups, notably the CGNG, which orchestrated the logistics and execution of the smuggling operation. Supporting them was a Houston-based firm — either Econ Midstream or Icon — which played a pivotal role in sourcing and transporting the illicit cargo. This company operated within the midstream sector, bridging upstream oil extraction with downstream distribution, but in this case, served as a conduit for illegal activities.