This is What the Land Where ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán’s Tunnel Once Ran Looks Like Today

This is the current state of the land adjacent to Federal Social Reintegration Center (CEFERESO) No. 1—the site beneath which the 1.5 km tunnel used by Joaquín Guzmán Loera, alias “El Chapo,” for his escape once ran. The landowner stated that following El Chapo’s escape, authorities carried out operations to disable the tunnel by detonating explosives in certain sections, which caused damage to his property. 

“Not long after El Chapo escaped, they arrived and announced they were going to blow up the tunnel. About a year later, the ground began to sink—it started to settle—and holes began to appear.” 

These holes, allegedly created by the federal government’s efforts to destroy the tunnel, are clearly visible in front of the prison, revealing part of the path of this underground structure. In fact, these holes can be seen in satellite imagery dating back to June 18, 2017. The landowner maintains that no detonations took place on his specific plot of land. 

“The tunnel is still here.” 

Some of the holes are large, others smaller, but they pose a danger to machinery and to animals grazing in the area; some animals have already fallen into them, sustaining injuries. Meanwhile, the house where the construction of the tunnel began remains uninhabited. 

All that remains at the site is a tattered tarp bearing the following notice: “Property under official administration. The unauthorized disposal or seizure of this property constitutes a criminal offense under Articles 285 and 395 of the Federal Penal Code; anyone caught attempting to enter the premises or causing any irregularities will be turned over to the appropriate authorities.” 

According to the landowner, the property where the tunnel originated was sold some time ago, and at no point were any construction noises heard. Nothing was heard—absolutely nothing—not a single sound. The buyer came to introduce himself to me, took a look around, and mentioned that he intended to set up some pens for fattening livestock.

Source: NMás