San Diego, CA (June 18, 2025) – U.S. Border Patrol agents in San Diego uncovered a sophisticated cross-border drug smuggling tunnel under construction near Otay Mesa.
The agents discovered the tunnel in early April while patrolling near the Otay Mesa Port of Entry. They entered the tunnel and found makeshift barricades placed to delay their progress and hide the origin point.
The tunnel stretched 2,918 feet, measured 42 inches high and 28 inches wide, and ran 50 feet underground. Inside, agents found lighting, electrical wiring, ventilation systems, and a track system for moving narcotics.
Later, agents coordinated with Homeland Security Investigations and Mexican authorities to locate the tunnel’s entrance in Tijuana. Authorities found the entry hidden under fresh tile in a home in the Nueva Tijuana neighborhood.
On Monday, Mexican officials served a warrant at the residence and confirmed the tunnel’s origin.
“This discovery shows the risks we face at the border daily,” said Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey D. Stalnaker. “Our Tunnel Team acted with courage and precision.”
So far, officials have found and shut down over 95 tunnels in the San Diego area since 1993. This tunnel will be sealed with concrete to prevent future use.
Because traffickers continue to build underground routes, Border Patrol remains on high alert. They monitor all known smuggling corridors around the clock.
If you see suspicious activity near the border, call 911 or contact the San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.
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