U.S. Border Patrol Uncovers Sophisticated Drug Smuggling Tunnel Under US-Mexico Border
In a significant operation, U.S. Border Patrol agents have discovered and dismantled an extensive drug smuggling tunnel stretching nearly 3,000 feet beneath the U.S.-Mexico border. This tunnel, linking Tijuana, Mexico, to San Diego, California, was uncovered in early April while still under construction.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the tunnel ran beneath the Otay Mesa Port of Entry and had a potential exit point located near or within a commercial warehouse in San Diego. Upon entering the tunnel, authorities noted its "highly sophisticated" design, which included barricades likely intended to obscure the entrance from law enforcement.
Key Details of the Smuggling Tunnel
- Length: 2,918 feet
- Depth: Approximately 50 feet at its deepest point
- Dimensions: 42 inches tall and 28 inches wide
- Features: The tunnel was equipped with lighting, electrical wiring, ventilation systems, and a track system for the efficient transport of contraband.
Border Patrol agents, in collaboration with Homeland Security Investigations and authorities from the Government of Mexico, located the tunnel entrance in a home in the Nueva Tijuana neighborhood. Interestingly, the entrance had been concealed with freshly laid tile, suggesting recent activity.
Preventative Measures Against Future Use
To prevent the tunnel from being exploited by foreign terrorist organizations, CBP plans to pour thousands of gallons of concrete into the passageway. “As we continue to enhance our nation’s air and maritime border security, it’s not surprising that foreign terrorist organizations would resort to underground routes," stated Jeffrey D. Stalnaker, acting chief patrol agent of the San Diego Sector. “Disruption of narcotics smuggling tunnels is critical to protecting American lives.”
Since 1993, more than 95 tunnels have been deactivated in the San Diego area, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating drug smuggling operations.
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Sophia Compton is a Digital Production Assistant at Fox News Digital, with a background in business reporting covering finance, energy, and tourism. She holds a journalism degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
