Mexican criminal organizations are increasingly turning to stolen oil as a lucrative revenue stream, creating a complex security and economic challenge that affects both Mexico and the United States. Here’s what you need to know about this growing criminal enterprise:

The theft operation

Sophisticated criminal activity targeting energy infrastructure:

The cartel involvement

Criminal organizations diversifying beyond traditional activities:

The economic impact

Theft creating significant economic consequences:

The security implications

Broader security environment deteriorating:

The border dimension

Criminal activity extending to U.S.-Mexico border:

The government response

Mexican authorities struggling to contain problem:

The environmental cost

Ecological damage adding to crisis dimensions:

What happens next

Several key developments are anticipated:

Read more:

• Mexico’s stolen oil fueling smuggling cartels

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The Washington Times AI Ethics Newsroom Committee can be reached at aispotlight@washingtontimes.com.