The military seized a cartel truck that reportedly stole 8,200 gallons of fuel from the state-owned oil company in Ecuador.

Concerned workers reported low pressure in the Petroecuador pipeline, prompting the Army Corps of Engineers to conduct hydrocarbon security operations in Valdivia, Santa Elena, and Daule, Guayas.

Upon noticing the military presence, the occupants fled, abandoning evidence at the scene.

Emergency responders confiscated two trucks, 35 plastic tanks of 250 gallons each, 8,200 gallons of recovered fuel, two high-pressure valves, two couplings welded to the pipeline, and at least 30 metres of high-pressure hose.

The force said on December 7: 'The Ecuadorian Army reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the State's strategic resources and striking at criminal structures that affect the country's economy and security.'