Illegal tunnel found in Esmeraldas–Santo Domingo pipeline: 3,000 gallons seized
Police discovered an improvised tunnel connected to the state pipeline in the El Edén sector. Authorities seized 3,000 gallons of hydrocarbons and a truck with a record for the same crime.
Operation ATLAS-062 exposes illegal fuel extraction network in Santo Domingo
The National Police executed operation ATLAS-062-SZI-SDT in the El Edén sector, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas province, and discovered an improvised tunnel connected directly to the Esmeraldas–Santo Domingo pipeline, according to expreso.ec. Interior Minister John Reimberg confirmed that the raided property operated as a clandestine centre for unauthorised extraction and distribution of petroleum products.
During the intervention, officers identified a rudimentary infrastructure used to perforate the state pipeline and extract fuel. On the premises, machinery and materials intended for illegal accumulation of hydrocarbons were also found.
The authorities seized a tank containing 3,000 gallons of hydrocarbon derivatives and a hose used for transporting the substances.
A truck immobilised at the site has a previous record of detention at the same property, also for acts related to theft and unauthorised sale of fuel. This item was incorporated into the case file to determine criminal responsibility and possible recidivism of networks dedicated to this crime in the area.
Source: Google News DO — Santo Domingo