Authorities from neighboring countries held the first meeting of the Binational Security Implementation Group.
The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed that “the creation of a bilateral working group was announced to combat cross-border illicit finance, as well as to cooperate on civil asset forfeiture and improve coordination to prevent fuel theft. These actions are essential to dismantle transnational criminal organizations by cutting off their sources of financing.”
This is mentioned in reference to the fact that huachicol (fuel theft) is identified as an important source of income for criminal groups, which may be even greater than drug trafficking.
In addition, authorities announced “Mission Firewall,” focused on addressing illegal arms trafficking, facilitating the expansion of the use of eTrace and ballistic imaging technology in Mexico’s 32 states, in addition to strengthening information-sharing platforms and increasing joint investigations.
The United States will strengthen inspections and coordination with Mexico to stem the flow of weapons southward.
