MEXICO – Second blaze in a month at Pemex’s Dos Bocas refinery raises fresh safety questions

Renewed safety concerns have emerged at Pemex’s Dos Bocas (Olmeca) refinery in Tabasco after a second fire occurred at the site within the span of a month. The latest incident, although non-fatal, adds to mounting scrutiny over the facility’s safety performance and operational reliability.

The fire broke out on 9 April 2026 at the Paraíso complex, triggering an immediate response from refinery personnel, firefighting units and security forces. According to Pemex, the blaze was contained without injuries and did not significantly disrupt operations. Nevertheless, images from the scene showed a large plume of smoke and the presence of emergency responders, including members of the National Guard.

Firefighting efforts involved multiple units across the site, with reports indicating that around eight fire engines were deployed. While the exact cause remains under investigation, preliminary indications suggest a possible origin near the coke storage area. The incident was confined to a limited section of the refinery and brought under control within a relatively short period.

The event follows a more serious incident on 17 March, when a fire reportedly ignited by “oily waters” near the refinery’s perimeter resulted in five fatalities. The recurrence of such incidents in quick succession has heightened concerns about safety management at the facility. Pemex stated that its director, Víctor Rodríguez, is expected to visit the site to oversee recovery efforts and assess the situation.

Photo credit: The Australian. All rights reserved.