Sophisticated tunnel for cocaine trafficking found between U.S. and Mexico

U.S. authorities have uncovered a sophisticated cross-border tunnel spanning nearly 600 meters, used for trafficking illicit drugs between Southern California and Tijuana, Mexico. The discovery led to charges against four individuals for conspiracy to distribute more than a ton of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $45 million.

The tunnel, extending from Tijuana to a retail establishment near the Otay Mesa Port of Entry in California, known as Buy 4 Less, was found to be approximately 589 meters long, 16.7 meters deep, and 1.3 meters high. Investigations revealed the passage was equipped with reinforced walls, rail systems, ventilation, and an electrical supply, indicating a high level of organization and investment in the smuggling operation.

The breakthrough came after Homeland Security Investigations' Tunnel Task Force monitored the Buy 4 Less business from December 2025 to May 2026 due to suspicious activity. Investigators observed a new group of about seven or eight "employees" regularly present at the business, despite a low customer flow. These individuals, including one of the accused, Gregorio Epifanio Hernández López, were seen transporting numerous suitcases from inside the store to vehicles and crossing them into Mexico on foot.

Further surveillance detected the group loading large, heavy items into vehicles, which were then transferred to trucks. These trucks were intercepted by federal authorities en route to Northern California, carrying the substantial cocaine shipment. Hernández López faces additional charges specifically related to the use of a cross-border tunnel for drug trafficking.