A federal drug investigation has resulted in the discovery of a sophisticated cross-border drug tunnel on May 13, 2022. The tunnel was discovered in Otay Mesa, California. 1,762 pounds of cocaine were distributed through the tunnel.
The subterranean passageway stretched from Tijuana, Mexico to a warehouse in Otay Mesa, CA. The tunnel is estimated to be about 1,744 feet long, 61 feet deep and 4-feet in diameter, with reinforced walls, a rail system, electricity and a ventilation system.
In addition to the 1,762 pounds of cocaine, authorities seized 164 pounds of methamphetamine and 3.5 pounds of heroin.
The tunnel was discovered just after midnight on May 13, 2022 by U.S. law enforcement officials from Homeland Security Investigations who were conducting surveillance.
Federal agents executed a search warrant on the warehouse and agents uncovered the sophisticated cross border tunnel exit point carved out of the cement floor.
There have been 90 subterranean passages discovered in the Southern District of California since 1993. Of those, 27 were considered sophisticated. The last tunnel discovered in the Southern District of California was in March 2020.
6 people were arrested.
