US Federal Officials announced the arrest of four individuals in connection with a sophisticated cross-border drug tunnel linking Tijuana, Mexico, and San Diego, California, used to traffic over $45 million worth of cocaine.
The tunnel, discovered under a warehouse disguised as a discount store called Buy 4 Less near the Otay Mesa Port of Entry, was approximately 2,000 feet long, 55 feet deep, and equipped with electricity, ventilation, reinforced walls, and a rail system.
The investigation began in December 2025, when Homeland Security Investigations' Tunnel Task Force observed unusual activity at the Buy 4 Less location, including minimal customer foot traffic and employees carrying empty suitcases across the border.
On May 29, 2026, agents observed large, heavy items being loaded into a white van. After surveillance, law enforcement intervened, leading to the seizure of over 2,269 pounds of cocaine from three vehicles. A subsequent search warrant revealed the tunnel's exit concealed beneath the floor of a storage room inside the Buy 4 Less store.
Arrests and Charges
The arrested individuals are:
- Gregorio Epifanio Hernandez Lopez (29, San Diego)
- Jose Jimenez (32, San Diego)
- Antonio Cortez (18, Mexico)
- Brandon Escalante Sandoval (26, Mexico)
All four are charged with distribution of a controlled substance. Hernandez Lopez faces additional charges for constructing/using unauthorized tunnels and importation of a controlled substance. Each faces a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted.
Official Statements
"For these defendants, it wasn't a light at the end of the tunnel. It was lights and sirens." — US Attorney Adam Gordon
Kevin Murphy, acting special agent in charge for HSI San Diego, stated the investigation represents a significant blow to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
Background
- The tunnel extended over 1,000 feet from the US side to the border and continued over 800 feet on the Mexican side.
- The operation was a joint effort by the US Homeland Security Investigations Tunnel Task Force and other Homeland Security Task Force partners.