Mexican Authorities Discover Cross-Border Tunnel in Tijuana, Suspected in Drug and Weapons Trafficking Operations

TIJUANA, Mexico — In a significant discovery, Mexican authorities have uncovered a sophisticated cross-border tunnel in Tijuana, believed to extend to a well-trafficked street in San Diego.

Spanning nearly 900 feet, this tunnel is suspected of facilitating the smuggling of weapons, explosives, and illegal drugs, according to the Federal Attorney General’s Office of Mexico (FGR).

The tunnel is reported to reach a depth of approximately 21 feet and is equipped with operational infrastructure, including lighting and ventilation systems.

This clandestine passage was uncovered during a search of a residence in the Nueva Tijuana neighborhood. The operation was part of a broader investigation into breaches of public health regulations and federal laws concerning firearms and explosives.

The authorities have indicated that the property served as a hub for storage and logistics in support of the trafficking network.

During the search, investigators also discovered ammunition, suspected methamphetamine and marijuana, cellphones, and various documents, adding to the evidence of illicit activities.

They also found an electronic sliding mechanism within the tunnel that allowed movement in both directions between Mexico and the United States, the FGR said.

Based on the investigation, authorities said the tunnel likely connects to a well-known street in San Diego, but the street name was not immediately released.

“This operation represents a direct blow to the operations, transportation routes, and logistics networks used for drug trafficking, strengthening investigative efforts and institutional capabilities to combat criminal organizations engaged in such illicit activities,” the FGR said in a press release.

Our affiliate station, KGTV in San Diego, reached out to the Department of Homeland Security concerning the discovery:

“Special Agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in San Diego, in coordination with our Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) partners, are conducting a criminal enforcement operation involving a cross-border subterranean tunnel in Otay Mesa, CA. To protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation and ensure the safety of all involved, we are unable provide additional details at this time.”

The property and all evidence seized at the site have been secured and turned over to federal prosecutors in Baja California, who will continue the investigation.