A suspected drug trafficking leader has been arraigned in San Diego, with US prosecutors accusing him of operating an elaborate network of cross border tunnels used to smuggle massive quantities of narcotics from Mexico into California.
Genaro Lopez, 54, appeared in federal court on Monday after authorities linked him to multiple large scale drug seizures and sophisticated underground tunnels discovered in recent years.
Investigation began with 2021 drug raid
The investigation dates back to 2021, when law enforcement officers stopped three vehicles leaving a suspected stash house in Chula Vista.
Authorities recovered 241 kilograms of cocaine, eight firearms, including two ghost guns, ammunition, high capacity magazines and approximately $40,000 in cash.
Four alleged associates of Lopez were arrested during the operation and have since pleaded guilty and been sentenced. Lopez was not present during the raid and remained at large until his arrest in March 2026.
Secret tunnel uncovered in second operation
The investigation expanded in 2022 after authorities monitored another suspected stash house in National City and stopped four vehicles leaving the property.
The subsequent search led to an even larger seizure, including nearly 800 kilograms of cocaine, 74.8 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 1.6 kilograms of fentanyl.
Investigators also uncovered a sophisticated underground tunnel linking Otay Mesa, California, with Tijuana, Mexico.
According to the US Department of Justice, the tunnel measured approximately 1,744 feet long, 61 feet deep and 4 feet wide, and was equipped with electricity, ventilation systems and a rail track designed to transport contraband.
Six people were arrested during the operation. Five have since pleaded guilty and been sentenced, while another suspect remains a fugitive.
Similar tunnel found beneath fake business
Officials remarked that the tunnel was similar to another elaborate tunnel found in a phony “Buy 4 Less” store in Otay Mesa.
That tunnel measured close to 1,933 feet long, was about 55 feet deep, and had walls constructed out of strong material and contained electricity and ventilation.
Law enforcement was able to catch on to this after extensive reconnaissance of the location, wherein they saw that there was strange activity despite almost no legitimate customers at the store.
Lopez faces life sentence if convicted
Federal prosecutors have charged Lopez with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and conspiracy to import controlled substances.
He is scheduled to appear in court again on Tuesday, when a trial date is expected to be set.
If convicted on all charges, Lopez could face life imprisonment.