[KRQE] HSI promises to find those responsible for ‘sophisticated’ tunnelSpecial agents with Homeland Security Investigations, along with U.S. Border Patrol, uncovered what they are calling a “sophisticated cross-border tunnel” connecting El Paso to Ciudad Juarez on Friday, Jan. 10.
HSI El Paso says it is leading the investigation to prosecute those responsible behind the tunnel.
Border Patrol officials earlier called the tunnel an “historic” discovery.
HSI said that upon excavation of the “smuggling tunnel,” they determined that it extends under the U.S.-Mexico border into the Boone Street storm drain in South-Central El Paso and it is approximately 4 feet across and 6 feet in height.
HSI also said the tunnel is held up by wood beams and is equipped with electricity, a ventilation system and appears to have been constructed in the past year.
Border Patrol initially said their Confined Space Entry Team discovered the tunnel early Friday morning and that it crosses from Juarez into the El Paso storm drain system.
The tunnel includes lighting, a ventilation system and is braced with wood beams throughout, Border Patrol added.
HSI has been working closely with their counterparts in Juarez to make sure that the man-made tunnel from El Paso into Ciudad Juarez is secured.
“The uncovering of this tunnel showcases the success of our combined investigative efforts,” HSI El Paso Special Agent in Charge Jason T. Stevens said. “Transnational criminal organizations mistakenly think they can avoid detection by moving people and contraband underground. This recent discovery is a significant blow to their operations as it highlights our capability to disrupt their sophisticated smuggling networks.
“The discovery of this tunnel and the follow-up investigation highlight the strong collaboration and dedication of our valued law enforcement partners — I want to express my gratitude to the federal, state and local departments supporting this case for their unwavering commitment to enhancing public safety,” Stevens added.
As of Friday, no arrests have been made, HSI said.
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