Texas oil thefts linked to illegal immigration spark federal response

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Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) is set to introduce legislation aimed at combating large-scale oil and gasoline theft in the Permian Basin, West Texas, by organized crime networks. These criminal rings, reportedly recruiting illegal immigrants, are responsible for widespread theft from both large and small oil companies in the region, which is the largest oil-producing area in the United States.

Gonzales has spent months investigating these crimes, which include hijacking trucks carrying oil, stealing expensive equipment, and even siphoning gas from stations. According to Gonzales, local authorities are aware of the issue but lack the resources to effectively combat such sophisticated operations.

In a testimony before Congress, FBI Director Christopher Wray acknowledged the growing concern over oil theft in Texas, calling it a threat to critical infrastructure.

The forthcoming bill will take a three-pronged approach: increasing penalties for oil and equipment theft, securing permanent funding for a regional task force to handle these crimes, and providing federal resources to bolster local law enforcement efforts. Gonzales emphasized that collaboration between local, state, and federal agencies is key to tackling the issue.

Industry representatives, such as Matt Coday of the Oil & Gas Workers Association, have praised the effort, highlighting the threat oil theft poses not only to the economy but also to national security.