Sophisticated Cross-Border Tunnel Found Under Fake Store in San Diego
San Diego, California — U.S. authorities have discovered a sophisticated smuggling tunnel running from Tijuana, Mexico, into San Diego. The tunnel’s U.S. entrance was hidden beneath a fake “Buy 4 Less” store in Otay Mesa.
The tunnel, approximately 1,933 feet long and 55 feet deep, was equipped with electricity, ventilation, and a rail system. It featured a hidden hydraulic lift entrance inside the store.
On May 29, 2026, agents seized more than one ton of cocaine (valued at around $45 million) linked to the operation. Four men have been charged with drug conspiracy:
- Gregorio Epifanio Hernandez Lopez, 29
- Jose Jimenez, 32
- Antonio Cortez, 18
- Brandon Escalante Sandoval, 26
Authorities believe the tunnel was used by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. This is the 99th cross-border tunnel discovered in Southern California since 1993.
The investigation was led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tunnel Task Force.
