Smuggling tunnel equipped with ventilation discovered in El Paso storm drain system
EL PASO, Texas (UI) — U.S. Border Patrol agents, in collaboration with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), uncovered a sophisticated man-made tunnel on Jan. 9 that connected Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, to the El Paso storm drain system.
The tunnel, concealed by a metal plate over a 36-by-36-inch entry hole, was discovered during an inspection conducted by the El Paso Station Confined Space Entry Team (CSET). Measuring approximately six feet tall and four feet wide, the structure featured lighting, a ventilation system, and wooden beams for reinforcement.
“This smuggling infrastructure, created by transnational criminal organizations, poses significant risks,” said El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent Anthony Scott Good. “Our agents are relentless in their efforts to survey and protect every square mile of the El Paso Sector. We remain committed to bringing those responsible to justice.”
The investigation into the tunnel is ongoing, with multiple agencies involved, including HSI, the FBI, El Paso CBP Office of Field Operations, the El Paso Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Mexican government. Officials are coordinating remediation efforts to secure and close the tunnel.
FBI Special Agent in Charge John Morales highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing cross-border criminal activity. “This discovery underscores the critical partnerships between agencies on both sides of the border, working to secure our communities and protect our nation. The FBI remains steadfast in supporting this investigation and combating national security threats,” he said.
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