Federal agents with Homeland Security Investigations say they've discovered "the most sophisticated tunnel in U.S. history" located outside Yuma, Arizona.
According to the release from Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, the incomplete tunnel intended for smuggling measures 3 feet wide, 4 feet high and is equipped with a fully-developed ventilation system, water lines, electrical wiring, and even a rail system. Agents said the reinforced tunnel begins in San Luis, Arizona, crosses the border into Mexico and terminates in a Mexican neighborhood.
âThis appears to be the most sophisticated tunnel in U.S. history, and certainly the most sophisticated Iâve seen in my career,â said Carl E. Landrum, acting chief patrol agent with the Border Patrol's Yuma Sector.
The tunnel was discovered in late July. Agents sent a camera 25 feet underground after federal agents discovered a sinkhole in the area of the tunnel investigation.
"Homeland Security Investigations and our esteemed law enforcement partners swiftly and effectively worked together to uncover and dismantle a cross-border tunnel for smuggling purposes into the United States," said Scott Brown, HSI special agent in charge in Phoenix. "Despite the international pandemic, HSI and our law enforcement colleagues remains resilient and committed to pursuing dangerous criminal trans-border smuggling activities along the southwest border."
Photo: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement