California Drug Tunnel: 532-Meter Smuggling Route to Mexico Uncovered

A federal case in California has exposed a sophisticated drug tunnel stretching from a warehouse to Mexico, with tons of narcotics seized and a fugitive kingpin now facing life in prison.

California Drug Tunnel: 532-Meter Smuggling Route to Mexico Uncovered

A federal prosecution in California is offering a rare look at the logistics of cross-border narcotics trafficking. The defendant, 54-year-old Genaro Lopez, stands accused of conspiracy to distribute and import controlled substances. If convicted, he faces life imprisonment.

The case stems from a 2021 raid in Chula Vista, southern California, where authorities seized 241 kilograms of cocaine, eight firearms — including two unregistered ghost guns — ammunition, multiple magazines, and $40,000 in cash. Four Lopez employees were arrested at the scene, later charged, and convicted. Lopez himself was absent during the raid and remained at large until his capture in Mexico this past March, followed by extradition to the United States.

A subsequent operation in 2022 in National City, near the Mexican border, yielded an even larger haul. Investigators had grown suspicious after observing several vehicles leaving a commercial building. They ultimately confiscated nearly 800 kilograms of cocaine, 74.8 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 1.6 kilograms of fentanyl.

Beneath the stash house, agents made a far more alarming find: an underground passage extending into Tijuana, Mexico. Images released by the U.S. Department of Justice depict a dark but professionally constructed corridor. According to federal estimates, the tunnel measured roughly 532 meters in length, descended 18.6 meters below ground, and spanned 1.2 meters in width. It featured ventilation, electrical wiring, and a rail system.

Per the New York Post, six individuals were arrested inside the tunnel. Five of them have since pleaded guilty and received sentences. Lopez entered a not-guilty plea at his initial hearing. A follow-up proceeding in August is expected to set a trial date.

Source: n-tv

Source: n-tv