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Border Patrol agents, in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security and Mexican authorities, have shut down a 2,918-foot-long tunnel connecting Tijuana, Mexico, to San Diego. The tunnel, discovered at a depth of 50 feet, linked a home in the Nueva Tijuana neighborhood to a commercial warehouse in San Diego County.
The tunnel, which was equipped with electrical wiring, lighting, ventilation systems, and a track system, was believed to be used for smuggling large-scale contraband, including narcotics. According to Los Angeles Times, the Border Patrol's Tunnel Team discovered the tunnel in April while it was under construction but only recently identified its origin.
Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey D. Stalnaker of the San Diego Sector emphasized the importance of disrupting such tunnels to protect American lives. "Disruption of narcotics smuggling tunnels is critical," he stated. Six individuals have been charged with conspiring to distribute over 1,750 pounds of cocaine as a result of the investigation.
The tunnel's entrance was hidden under newly placed tiles in Nueva Tijuana, and Mexican authorities executed a search warrant for crimes against national health. Yahoo News reported that a package containing methamphetamine was seized inside the tunnel. To prevent future use, contractors are expected to fill the tunnel with concrete.
Since 1993, more than 95 tunnels have been found and decommissioned in the San Diego area. This recent discovery highlights the ongoing challenges in securing the U.S.-Mexico border from underground smuggling operations.