SouthernWorldwide.com – Mexican authorities have discovered a sophisticated underground tunnel near the U.S.-Mexico border, which they believe may have been used to support cross-border trafficking operations.
The tunnel, found in the Nueva Tijuana neighborhood of Tijuana, Baja California, was equipped with advanced features such as lighting, ventilation, and an electronic transport system. This discovery was announced by Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office (FGR) following the execution of a search warrant.
The FGR stated that the tunnel extended approximately 265 meters, or about 870 feet, and reached a depth of roughly 6.3 meters, or 21 feet, underground. Its presence suggests a significant level of planning and investment by those who constructed it.
Investigators found that the tunnel was not merely a simple passage but contained operational infrastructure. This included systems for lighting and ventilation, crucial for sustaining activity within the subterranean passage, along with an electronic sliding mechanism. This mechanism was designed to facilitate the movement of items in both directions between Mexico and the United States.
The discovery was the result of intelligence work by agents from the FGR’s Criminal Investigation Agency, working in conjunction with Mexico’s Security Cabinet. This highlights the collaborative efforts involved in uncovering such clandestine operations.
Officials confirmed that the search warrant was issued as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged violations of Mexico’s firearms and explosives laws, as well as drug-related offenses. This indicates the tunnel was suspected of being involved in serious criminal activities.
Authorities suspect that the property where the tunnel was accessed may have served as a hub for storage, logistics, and trafficking of firearms, explosives, and illicit drugs. The scale of the operation suggests a well-established criminal network.
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Photographs released by the FGR provide a glimpse into the operation, showing agents navigating the underground passageway, access points leading into the tunnel, and evidence that was recovered. These visuals underscore the reality of the discovery.
During the operation, investigators seized ammunition, suspected methamphetamine, suspected marijuana, cell phones, and various documents. These items are critical pieces of evidence in the ongoing investigation into the tunnel’s use.
The images also appear to show ventilation infrastructure within the tunnel, further emphasizing the sophisticated nature of this operation. Such systems are essential for prolonged use of underground tunnels.
The FGR indicated that their investigation suggests the tunnel likely connects to a street in San Diego. However, U.S. authorities have not yet publicly identified the specific location or confirmed if the U.S. side of the tunnel has been located.
Officials described the discovery as a significant setback for criminal organizations that rely on underground smuggling routes. These routes are a key method for moving narcotics and other contraband across the border, making this bust impactful.
The evidence collected and the property involved have been handed over to federal prosecutors in Baja California. They will continue the investigation to determine the full extent of the criminal activities associated with the tunnel.
