Zero Theft Plan: Mexico's Response to the Security Crisis in Cargo Transportation

Cargo transportation in Mexico faces an unprecedented security crisis. With more than 24,000 robberies recorded in the first six months of 2025, according to CLT Protection data, the situation has reached a critical point that threatens the stability of the entire national logistics chain. Faced with this alarming reality, President Claudia Sheinbaum's government has presented the Zero Theft Plan, an integral strategy that seeks to transform security on the country's federal highways. We, from Control Terrestre, have been direct witnesses to how highway insecurity has impacted our clients and business partners. Constant concern for merchandise integrity and operator safety has become another variable in the logistics equation, increasing costs and complicating daily operations. A focused strategy on the most critical points The Zero Theft Plan is not a generalized measure, but a strategic response that concentrates on the three highways that account for 29% of truck thefts nationwide: Mexico-Puebla, Mexico-Querétaro and Culiacán-Mazatlán. This decision reflects an intelligent approach that prioritizes resources where they are most needed, a lesson we constantly apply in our logistics operations. The Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport (SICT), under Jesús Esteva's direction, has designed a program that encompasses four fundamental pillars: closing irregular accesses, installing dynamic arches, modernizing infrastructure and implementing integral stops. Each of these elements represents a key piece in the road security puzzle. Irregular accesses have been a vulnerability exploited by organized crime for years. These unauthorized or poorly designed entry and exit points facilitate ambushes and hinder authorities' response. Their systematic closure represents a fundamental step to create safer corridors. Technology at the service of security Installing dynamic arches at 12 strategic points marks a qualitative leap in cargo transportation monitoring. These devices, equipped with dimension sensors, weighing scales and speed radars, not only contribute to security but also optimize logistics operations control. For us, who value precision and control in every shipment, this technology represents an invaluable tool. Surveillance infrastructure modernization is equally impressive. Capufe currently operates 2,142 detection devices with panoramic, lane and booth cameras, backed by 155 workers who work 24 hours a day, every day of the year. The government's commitment to double this infrastructure during the current administration demonstrates a long-term vision that transcends political cycles. Integral stops: more than a rest place The $1 billion investment between 2025 and 2030 to build at least 30 integral stops represents a deep understanding of the real needs of truck operators. These spaces will not be simple rest areas, but integral centers that will offer security, parking, services, rest and recreation areas, and medical and food zones. As a company that understands the importance of the human factor in logistics, we especially value this initiative. Truck operators are the heart of cargo transportation, and providing them with safe and dignified spaces not only improves their quality of life but also contributes to overall system efficiency. The alarming context that justifies action The numbers supporting the need for the Zero Theft Plan are compelling. The 16% increase in truck robberies during 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, represents a trend that threatens the sector's economic viability. The states of México, Puebla, Guanajuato, Jalisco, San Luis Potosí and Veracruz concentrate almost 70% of recorded crimes, evidencing geographic patterns that allow for a focused response. The perception of insecurity has also reached critical levels. According to Inegi's National Urban Public Security Survey, 56.1% of the population perceives insecurity when traveling on highways, the highest level in five years. This perception not only affects truckers but impacts the entire supply chain, from producers to final consumers. Mixed results and persistent challenges Although Hernán Cortés, National Guard commander, reported a 22.4% decrease in cargo vehicle theft between January and June 2025, the reality is that crimes continue to be a constant threat. The case of the assault on the Fletes Durango truck, loaded with 33 tons of gold and silver concentrate, illustrates the sophistication and audacity of criminal groups. This incident, occurring near midnight and perpetrated by armed criminals aboard two vehicles, demonstrates that we are facing well-structured criminal organizations with access to privileged information. The presumption that it involves organized crime underscores the challenge's complexity. An opportunity for sector transformation The Zero Theft Plan represents more than a response to the security crisis; it's an opportunity to modernize and professionalize cargo transportation in Mexico. The integration of advanced technology, formalization of rest spaces and coordination between different government levels can lay the foundations for a more efficient and competitive sector. From our perspective at Control Terrestre, we see in this initiative an alignment with the principles that have guided our work: the importance of technology, the centrality of the human factor and the need for comprehensive approaches to solve complex problems. The plan's success will depend not only on effective implementation of announced measures, but also on the ability to maintain long-term commitment and adapt strategies as threats evolve. Security in cargo transportation is not just a government responsibility; it's a challenge that requires active participation from all sector actors. Only through collaboration between authorities, transport companies and logistics service providers can we build a truly safe and efficient system that responds to Mexico's needs in the 21st century.