Published: Dec 05, 2011

Feds Find 32 Tons of Pot in Subterranean Tunnel

A 600-yard tunnel connecting San Diego and Tijuana, Mexico, was so sophisticated it had electric rail cars, hydraulic lifts and wood floors. Officials believe the tunnel began operation recently.

Federal authorities found 32 tons of marijuana in the tunnel, making it one of the biggest busts in U.S. history, they said November 30. Nearly 17 tons were found in a warehouse in San Diego, 12 were discovered inside a truck in Los Angeles and approximately 4 tons were seized in Mexico.

"I would say it's probably as sophisticated as any we've ever seen," William Sherman, acting special agent in charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in San Diego, told The Associated Press.

In November, authorities came upon two other tunnels connecting San Diego and Tijuana, where they recovered 52 tons of marijuana in both countries. Those tunnels also were elaborate, with rail tracks, lighting and ventilation. Since 2008, more than 70 tunnels have been on the border, many located around San Diego, California's Imperial Valley and Nogales, Arizona.