The discovery of a sophisticated narco tunnel connecting El Paso and Juarez adds to the ongoing battle against smuggling at the US-Mexico border. The tunnel was outfitted with electrical and ventilation systems. It served as a conduit for drug and human trafficking. HSI El Paso is investigating to apprehend those responsible.
Tunnel Discovery
US federal agents discovered a sophisticated narco tunnel connecting El Paso, Texas, and Juarez, Mexico. The tunnel was concealed within the Boone Street storm-drain system and included necessary improvements such as electricity and ventilation. The entry point, which was about four feet wide and six feet high, was hidden behind a metal plate. Border Patrol agents made the discovery during routine inspections, adding another significant disruption to illegal cross-border smuggling networks.
The tunnel served as a major thoroughfare for illegal drug and human trafficking. This discovery is one of several such incidents along the US-Mexico border, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by these clandestine passageways. This discovery is one of several such incidents along the US-Mexico border, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by these clandestine passageways.
Border Patrol uncovers a cross-border tunnel from Mexico to El Paso, equipped with lighting, ventilation, and wood supports, used for smuggling. https://t.co/Rm1RBWciBO
— El Paso Times (@elpasotimes) January 11, 2025
Efforts to Address Smuggling
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in El Paso has taken on the task of investigating the tunnel and is determined to bring the perpetrators to justice. The discovery was made as part of regular border searches conducted in collaboration with the Border Patrol. These operations are critical to ensuring the safety and security of areas impacted by such underground activities. The smuggling networks believe their tunnels can avoid detection, but federal agencies are constantly countering these efforts with vigilant surveillance and operations.
“Transnational criminal organizations mistakenly think they can avoid detection by moving people and contraband underground.” – HSI El Paso Special Agent in Charge Jason Stevens
Furthermore, Border Patrol El Paso Sector Chief Anthony Good stated, “With our partners, we are committed to investigating these illicit activities and bringing all perpetrators to justice — those who endanger lives in these hazardous environments and circumvent legal entry into the United States.”
Federal agents uncovered a sophisticated drug smuggling tunnel which extends under the US-Mexico border to a warehouse in a commercial complex in San Diego. https://t.co/wQeATENPEp
— ICE (@ICEgov) March 31, 2020
Continuing Threat at the Border
The El Paso tunnel is just one of several recent discoveries, including another near the Arizona-Mexico border. Cross-border tunnels vary in sophistication, with some featuring elaborate constructions like rail systems and elevators, as seen in a major tunnel discovered in 2020 between Tijuana and San Diego. These finds underscore the ongoing threats to American border security posed by smuggling tunnels.
“With our partners, we are committed to investigating these illicit activities and bringing all the perpetrators to justice — those who endanger lives in these hazardous environments and circumvent the legal pathways into the United States.” – Border Patrol El Paso Sector Chief Anthony Good
Authorities are intensifying their efforts to monitor and secure the border against such threats, remaining vigilant in the defense of national security and the prevention of illegal trafficking. The ongoing battle against these smuggling networks necessitates constant innovation and cooperation among federal agencies.
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