Authorities combat fuel smuggling in Colombia and Bolivia

Authorities in Colombia and Bolivia have conducted significant operations to combat fuel smuggling and illegal hydrocarbon diversion.

In Colombia, the Army and Police seized over 16,000 gallons of diesel (ACPM) and nine vehicles, including tractor-trailers and tankers, in the Cesar department. The fuel was reportedly stolen from the Pozos Galán pipeline. Officials stated this operation impacts criminal financing by approximately $730,190,000 and resulted in one arrest.

In Bolivia, the National Hydrocarbons Agency (ANH) and the Bolivian Police detected the suspected diversion of 1,430 liters of liquid fuel in the Potosí department. Operations included inspecting service stations and private residences, leading to the seizure of gasoline and the temporary blocking of 45 vehicle registrations (B-SISA) due to irregular loading patterns.