Homeland Security Task Force uncovers sophisticated cross-border tunnel, seizes $45 million worth of cocaine

SAN DIEGO — A Homeland Security Task Force investigation uncovered a sophisticated cross-border tunnel and has led to charges against four people for conspiring to distribute over a ton of cocaine valued at $45 million.

The tunnel, stretching about 1,933 feet from Tijuana, Mexico, to a supposed retail store called “Buy 4 Less” near San Diego’s Otay Mesa Port of Entry, was equipped with reinforced walls, rail and ventilation systems, and electricity.

Gregorio Epifanio Hernandez Lopez and Jose Jimenez of San Diego, and Brandon Escalante Sandoval and Antonio Cortez of Mexico, are charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Hernandez Lopez faces additional charges for conspiracy to use a cross-border tunnel and conspiracy to import controlled substances.

“This investigation and seizure represent a significant blow to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel,” said HSI San Diego acting Special Agent in Charge Kevin Murphy. “The discovery and dismantlement of this sophisticated cross-border tunnel, along with the seizure of more than a ton of cocaine, underscore the commitment and collaboration of Homeland Security Investigations and our Homeland Security Task Force partners. HSI special agents and task force members worked tirelessly to disrupt the flow of dangerous narcotics into our communities, and we remain steadfast in our mission to protect the public and keep our communities safe.”

The Homeland Security Investigations Tunnel Task Force began surveilling Buy 4 Less in December 2025 due to suspicious activity — including minimal customer traffic and individuals transporting empty suitcases between the store and vehicles or across the border.

On May 29, 2026, agents watched a man load heavy items into a van at Buy 4 Less and drive it to a nearby mechanic shop. The agents also observed Escalante conducting counter-surveillance in the area. Escalante later moved the van, and a truck arrived. The suspects removed three deep freezers from the van, placed them on the truck’s bed, and filled them with packages.

After the packages were loaded, Escalante moved the truck to another location and left.

After Escalante departed, Jiminez arrived and drove away in the truck. San Diego County Sheriff’s deputies stopped the truck and, with help from a K9 unit, discovered evidence of controlled substances. Deputies later stopped a second truck and van linked to the operation, both of which also tested positive for controlled substances.

Agents seized over 1,000 kilograms (more than 2,200 pounds) of cocaine from the vehicles.

Officials executed search warrants at Buy 4 Less and the mechanic shop. They found the tunnel, accessible by a hydraulic lift, hidden under the store’s floor. The tunnel extended about 1,064 feet from Buy 4 Less to the U.S.-Mexico border and another 800 feet into Mexico.

“For these defendants, it wasn’t a light at the end of the tunnel. It was lights and sirens,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon.