The tunnel was uncovered during a raid on a property in the Nueva Tijuana neighbourhood of Tijuana, in the northern Mexican state of Baja California. The operation was carried out by Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office (FGR) as part of an investigation into suspected weapons and drug-related crimes.
According to authorities, the tunnel stretches about 265 metres (870 feet) and runs roughly 6.3 metres (21 feet) below ground. Investigators said it was equipped with lighting, ventilation systems and an electronic transport mechanism designed to move items between Mexico and the United States.
Officials believe the property where the tunnel was found may have served as a storage, logistics and trafficking hub for firearms, explosives and illegal drugs.
During the search, authorities seized ammunition, suspected methamphetamine, suspected marijuana, mobile phones and several documents. The property has since been secured, and all evidence transferred to federal prosecutors for further investigation.
The discovery followed intelligence work by agents from the Criminal Investigation Agency (AIC), working alongside Mexico’s Security Cabinet and federal prosecutors.
Photos and videos released by the FGR showed investigators navigating the underground passageway and inspecting what appeared to be ventilation infrastructure and transport equipment inside the tunnel.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the tunnel’s exact endpoint on the US side, but preliminary findings suggest it may connect to a street in San Diego, near the Otay Mesa area, close to the international border.
The discovery also drew attention from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who said on social media that members of the California National Guard’s Counter Drug Task Force had supported efforts linked to the tunnel investigation.
Newsom said the operation contributed to the seizure of around 1,000 kilograms of cocaine valued at more than $45 million, though Mexican authorities have not publicly linked that seizure directly to the tunnel.
Investigations are ongoing as authorities seek to determine the full extent of the operation and any cross-border criminal networks involved.
(Edited by : Priyanka Deshpande)
