Ex-Governor Ernesto Ruffo Appel Arrested on Fuel Smuggling Charges

Ernesto Ruffo Appel, the first opposition governor in Mexico's modern history, was arrested on July 16, 2026, on charges of organized crime and fuel smuggling. The arrest, carried out in Ensenada by the SSPC, stems from an investigation into large-scale fuel contraband allegedly conducted through his company Ingemar Source: FGR via La Jornada.

The Arrest

The FGR obtained a warrant for Ruffo's arrest for probable responsibility in organized crime and contraband Source: Milenio. The same day, Ricardo Thompson Navarro, identified as a partner in Ingemar, was also detained Source: Infobae. Authorities previously seized 15 million liters of hydrocarbons transported in 129 rail tankers in Coahuila, linked to Ingemar Source: Milenio.

Reactions

PAN leader Jorge Romero called for due process, insisting that "the law cannot be applied with different criteria depending on the person or party" Source: Excelsior. In contrast, the party Somos México, where Ruffo serves as a political advisor, demanded his "immediate and unconditional release," calling the arrest an "outrage" and asserting that his company is fully authorized by customs agencies Source: Excelsior.

Investigation

The case highlights a complex network of fuel smuggling using railways, with companies, customs agents, and financial operators involved. The FGR says more details will be released soon Source: CNN.