Part 8/12:
Criminal organizations have embedded themselves deeply within Mexican politics and law enforcement. Reports of Mexican politicians, such as Serio Carmona, dubbed the "king of illegal fuel," highlight how corruption facilitates ongoing thefts. Authorities often only seize a fraction of the stolen oil, as the full scope of the flow remains concealed.
The illicit crude is sold at a 5-10% discount to unlicensed stations, refineries, and smaller oil producers in the US, creating a highly profitable black market. This discounted fuel constitutes a significant part of the US's energy supply, with the US Treasury offering $10 million rewards for information on cartel fuel crimes—an indicator of how critical this issue has become.