During Operation Centauro Norte, Phase II, Mexican authorities from Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex) conducted operations at various international crossings in northern Mexico, specifically in Tamaulipas and Coahuila. These operations aimed to crack down on the illegal transportation of gasoline, which has become a significant issue due to the rise of fuel theft in the region. Authorities detected vehicles carrying gasoline without the necessary permits, initiating investigations into these unlawful activities.

On February 11, during a routine inspection at the Pharr International Bridge in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, officials stopped a tanker truck with a capacity of approximately 31,500 liters of regular gasoline. The arrested individuals are suspected of being involved in huachicolero activities, which refer to fuel theft or illegal fuel trade in Mexico. The detentions mark the beginning of state-level investigations by the respective public prosecutors in the region, showcasing the government's continued efforts to tackle fuel-related crimes.

Operation Centauro Norte reflects a broader strategy employed by Pemex and governmental agencies to combat fuel theft in Mexico, as the country has faced significant challenges in controlling illegal gasoline transportation and theft for years. The initiative not only aims to prosecute those involved in such illicit activities but also serves to protect the legitimate fuel trade and ensure compliance with energy regulations, signaling a tough stance against organized crime in the energy sector of Mexico.