Clandestine Tap Triggers Emergency Response

Petróleos Mexicanos repaired a major LP gas leak on June 10, 2026, along the Cactus-Tula-Guadalajara pipeline near San Matías Tlalancaleca in Puebla. The rupture stemmed from an illegal tap, known locally as a "huachiga," and forced authorities to evacuate roughly 120 residents from the nearby community of San Francisco Tlaloc.

Pemex activated emergency protocols and shut down the system to minimize risk. No injuries or major damage were reported, according to Energía a Debate. State Civil Protection, Public Security, and Mexico's Defense Ministry coordinated the evacuation after residents reported gas odors during early morning hours, per reporting by Excélsior.

Criminal Networks Targeting Critical Infrastructure

Puebla's Public Security Secretariat confirmed that the 24-inch-diameter pipeline is a flashpoint in a turf war between criminal organizations operating across Puebla, Tlaxcala, and the State of Mexico. These groups battle for control of the lucrative illegal fuel theft market, known as "huachicol" for crude oil and "huachigas" for gas.

This breach represents the second incident on this pipeline in less than three weeks. On May 22, railway workers accidentally perforated the same line near Santa Ana-Palmillas in the State of Mexico.

Operations Resume as Security Tightens

Pemex said it maintains sufficient inventories at strategic distribution terminals to guarantee domestic supply while repairs continue. The company is coordinating with federal and state authorities to bolster surveillance across the central corridor's pipeline network.

Evacuated families are sheltering in temporary facilities set up by Civil Protection. The pipeline will resume operations once Pemex completes pressure testing and monitoring in the coming hours, paving the way for residents to return home.

FAQ

**Where did the June 10 LP gas leak occur?**

The leak happened on the Cactus-Tula-Guadalajara pipeline at San Matías Tlalancaleca near San Francisco Tlaloc in Puebla, caused by an illegal tap known as a huachiga.

**How many people were evacuated?**

Approximately 120 residents were evacuated. State Civil Protection, Public Security, and Mexico's Defense Ministry coordinated the response. Pemex reported zero injuries and minimal property damage.

**What are huachigas and why do they target this pipeline?**

Huachigas are clandestine LP gas taps. The 24-inch Cactus-Tula-Guadalajara pipeline is contested by criminal groups operating across Puebla, Tlaxcala, and the State of Mexico competing for control of the illegal hydrocarbon theft market.

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