U.S. Border Patrol Uncovers Massive Cartel Smuggling Tunnel Near San Diego
by Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Staff
(Worthy News) – U.S. Border Patrol agents have discovered and disabled a sophisticated smuggling tunnel stretching nearly 3,000 feet from a residence in Tijuana, Mexico, to a warehouse area near San Diego, California. Authorities say the tunnel, designed to move large quantities of narcotics into the United States, is further evidence that President Donald Trump’s border security measures are forcing drug cartels to resort to more elaborate tactics.
The tunnel, which was still under construction when agents uncovered it in April, extended more than 1,000 feet into U.S. territory and reached depths of nearly 50 feet underground. Measuring 42 inches high and 28 inches wide, the passageway was outfitted with ventilation, electricity, lighting, and a rail system to transport contraband efficiently.
Jeffrey D. Stalnaker, Acting Chief Patrol Agent for the San Diego Sector, said the tunnel’s discovery highlights the persistent threat posed by criminal organizations. “As we continue to strengthen the nation’s air and maritime border security, it’s not surprising that foreign terrorist organizations would resort to underground routes,” Stalnaker stated. “Disruption of narcotics smuggling tunnels is critical to protecting American lives.”
The Border Patrol coordinated with Mexican law enforcement, who located the tunnel’s origin inside a residence in Tijuana’s Nueva Tijuana neighborhood. The exit point was projected to be near the Otay Mesa border crossing, in a warehouse district often targeted by smugglers.
The discovery follows a series of recent actions by the Trump administration aimed at crippling cartel operations, including the designation of six Mexican cartels as foreign terrorist organizations and fresh sanctions against leaders of the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion, the Sinaloa Cartel, and the Cartel del Noreste.
Authorities have begun the process of filling the tunnel with thousands of gallons of concrete to ensure it cannot be used again. Since 1993, nearly 100 cross-border tunnels have been found and neutralized in the San Diego area alone.
“I’m grateful for the exceptional work of the Tunnel Team agents who placed themselves in danger, as well as the cooperation of our Mexican law enforcement partners,” Stalnaker added.
Officials say the discovery underscores the ongoing battle against transnational criminal networks seeking to exploit the U.S.-Mexico border, despite heightened security measures.
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