New elaborate drug tunnel discovered
- 13 years ago
This narrow opening leads to what authorities say is the most elaborate drug tunnel between the U.S. and Mexico they've ever seen.
Agents seized more than 32 tons of marijuana on the same day they uncovered this 600-yard tunnel linking San Diego to Tijuana.
The passageway is being described as one of the most sophisticated authorities have uncovered - complete with wood floors, lights and ventilation.
SOUNDBITE: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Special Agent Derek Benner saying:
"A hydraulic elevator system on the warehouse side in Mexico is used as the entrance point and an elaborate set of wooden stairs constructed on the U.S. side to exit the tunnel. All considered, a highly efficient mechanism to move narcotics in an underground environment. Fortunately, we are here to tell you today that the cartels' elaborate plans failed. We are able to shut this tunnel down as soon as it became operational."
These tracks were laid to haul rail cars filled with drugs. Perhaps most surprising was that the U.S. entrance for the tunnel was located inside this San Diego warehouse.
U.S. Customs and Immigrations officials say the backdrop of a bustling warehouse was an ideal cover for construction activity.
Deborah Gembara, Reuters
Agents seized more than 32 tons of marijuana on the same day they uncovered this 600-yard tunnel linking San Diego to Tijuana.
The passageway is being described as one of the most sophisticated authorities have uncovered - complete with wood floors, lights and ventilation.
SOUNDBITE: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Special Agent Derek Benner saying:
"A hydraulic elevator system on the warehouse side in Mexico is used as the entrance point and an elaborate set of wooden stairs constructed on the U.S. side to exit the tunnel. All considered, a highly efficient mechanism to move narcotics in an underground environment. Fortunately, we are here to tell you today that the cartels' elaborate plans failed. We are able to shut this tunnel down as soon as it became operational."
These tracks were laid to haul rail cars filled with drugs. Perhaps most surprising was that the U.S. entrance for the tunnel was located inside this San Diego warehouse.
U.S. Customs and Immigrations officials say the backdrop of a bustling warehouse was an ideal cover for construction activity.
Deborah Gembara, Reuters