Authorities have discovered a significant tunnel linking Tijuana, Mexico, and San Diego, California. This tunnel is believed to have been used for trafficking drugs, weapons, and individuals across the U.S.-Mexico border. During the operation, investigators seized drugs valued at approximately $45 million.
Seizure Details
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in San Diego reported seizing over $67 million in illegal drugs in various operations throughout July. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed this substantial haul. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to enhance security along the southern border of the United States.
Sidney Aki, CBP San Diego Director of Field Operations, emphasized the importance of the officers’ tasks, stating, “Day after day, our officers remain steadfast in their mission to protect our communities and secure our borders.” He credited the significant drug seizures to the officers’ dedication and vigilance.
From July 1 to July 31, officers from the San Diego Field Office, encompassing seven ports of entry along the California-Mexico line, seized 8,359 pounds of drugs during 144 smuggling attempts.
“These significant narcotics seizures reflect their vigilance, professionalism, and commitment to keeping dangerous drugs out of the United States.” – Sidney Aki
Substances Recovered
The seized contraband included:
- 553 pounds of fentanyl
- 36 pounds of heroin
- 2,572 pounds of cocaine
- 5,077 pounds of methamphetamine
The drugs’ combined street value reached an estimated $67 million, according to DHS.
Additional Findings
Earlier in the month, a 22-year-old Mexican national was intercepted with 16 pounds of fentanyl inside an electric moped at the San Ysidro Port of Entry. This moped had a street value of approximately $240,000 and was attempting to enter the United States.
In another significant finding, CBP reported blocking a vehicle loaded with a rocket-propelled grenade launcher tube and several weapons from crossing from Arizona into Mexico. Authorities discovered four rifles, an AK-style pistol, 16 additional AK rifles, 24 rifle magazines, 16 rifle stocks, and 20 pistol grips within the vehicle.