U.S. federal authorities have uncovered a sophisticated underground tunnel stretching from Mexico into Southern California, leading to the seizure of more than a tonne of cocaine with an estimated street value of over US$45 million. Four suspects have been charged in connection with the alleged drug trafficking operation.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, investigators discovered the tunnel beneath a seemingly ordinary retail store in Otay Mesa, San Diego. The passage, accessed through a concealed hydraulic lift, extends about 1,064 feet (324 metres) from the store to the U.S.-Mexico border and is believed to continue another 800 feet (244 metres) into Tijuana, Mexico. The tunnel was equipped with electricity, ventilation and a rail system designed to move large quantities of drugs.
The discovery came after a months-long Homeland Security investigation. Officers intercepted several vehicles on May 29 and recovered more than 2,250 pounds (over one tonne) of cocaine before tracing the operation to the hidden tunnel. Authorities believe the smuggling route was linked to Mexico's Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
Officials described the discovery as a major blow to organised crime. Homeland Security Investigations said the dismantling of the tunnel and the drug seizure disrupted a significant cross-border trafficking network. Prosecutors noted that this is the 99th underground passage discovered in Southern California since 1993, with only 28 classified as sophisticated. The previous operational tunnel in the region was found in 2022.
The four accused have appeared before a U.S. magistrate and face federal drug trafficking charges. If convicted, they could receive lengthy prison sentences as investigations continue into the wider criminal network behind the operation.
