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Mexico Reports Sharp Cargo Theft Decline as Criminal Pressure Persists in Key Corridors

Mexico's National Guard projects cargo theft will plummet 37% in 2026 compared to the 6,263 incidents reported in 2025. Through mid-year 2026, authorities have recorded 2,519 cargo theft incidents. Commander Guillermo Briseño Lobera attributed the decline to the federal Balam highway security program, which operates across 12 states and reduced thefts 37.19% between 2024 and 2025. Major corridors showed dramatic improvements: the Mexico-Querétaro route saw an 85.7% drop, while the Mexico-Puebla corridor declined 90%. The Mazatlán-Culiacán highway reported zero incidents. However, security analysts warn criminal organizations maintain pressure on logistics networks. Central Mexico remains the cargo theft epicenter, with 77% of incidents concentrated in the Center and West regions. The State of Mexico, Puebla and Guanajuato accounted for the highest theft activity in the second quarter, with 76% of incidents involving violence.