An alleged drug trafficker accused of transporting drugs into the United States through a sophisticated cross-border tunnel faced a judge Monday after being extradited on federal charges.
Genaro Lopez, 54, described by the U.S. Attorney’s Office as “a powerful drug trafficker operating on both sides of the border,” allegedly used the 61-foot-deep, 1,744-foot-long tunnel to move drugs from Tijuana to Otay Mesa in San Diego County.
The tunnel, which had reinforced walls, a rail system, electricity and ventilation, was discovered in 2022 while investigators were surveilling a stash house Lopez is accused of operating out of National City.
Authorities stopped four cars leaving the stash house and searched the house and cars, seizing close to 800 kilograms of cocaine, 74.8 kilograms (163 pounds) of methamphetamine, and 1.6 kilograms (3.5 pounds) of fentanyl.
It’s unclear how long the tunnel was in use before police busted the operation.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office said Lopez also ran a stash house in Chula Vista where investigators found drugs, guns and cash in 2021.
Authorities seized 241 kilograms of cocaine, eight firearms including two ghost guns, a bulletproof vest, ammunition, high-capacity magazines, and nearly $40,000 in cash in the July 2021 raid.
Lopez was not present during the search and subsequently fled to Mexico, remaining a fugitive until his arrest on March 10 at the request of the United States.
He pleaded not guilty on Monday and was being held without bond.
Six people were arrested in connection with the tunnel; five have pleaded guilty and been sentenced, while one remains at large.
Lopez’s next court appearance, for a motion hearing and trial setting, is scheduled for August 14 before U.S. District Judge Linda Lopez.
