Mexican authorities uncover cross-border tunnel in Tijuana likely used for drug, weapons trafficking

TIJUANA, Mexico (KABC) -- Mexican authorities found a cross-border tunnel in Tijuana that likely connects to a well-known street in San Diego.

The nearly 900 feet long tunnel was likely used to traffic weapons, explosives and illegal drugs, Mexico's Federal Attorney General's Office (FGR) said.

It reportedly reaches a depth of about 21 feet and has operating infrastructure, including lighting and ventilation.

Authorities found the tunnel when executing a search warrant at a home in the Nueva Tijuana neighborhood as part of an investigation into violations of public health regulations and federal firearms and explosives laws.

Authorities said the property appeared to function as a storage and logistics center for trafficking operations.

Investigators reported finding ammunition, suspected methamphetamine and marijuana, as well as cellphones and various documents at the site.

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.