Criminal logo

The Notorious Escape Of El Chapo

In this article we will be diving into Mexico's most famous criminal "El Chapo" daring escape from prison.

By Micah BrunsonPublished 2 years ago 2 min read
The Notorious Escape Of El Chapo
Photo by Emiliano Bar on Unsplash

Title: The Great Escape: El Chapo's Daring Tunnel Breakout

In a daring prison escape that seemed straight out of a Hollywood movie, Mexico's most notorious drug lord, Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, made a dramatic exit from a maximum-security prison. This audacious getaway involved a meticulously crafted tunnel and showcased the drug lord's resourcefulness and determination to evade justice.

The Escape Plan

El Chapo was no stranger to high-stakes escapes. He had previously managed to flee from prison in 2001, using a laundry cart to slip away from authorities. However, his 2015 escape would prove even more audacious.

The elaborate plan began with the construction of a secret tunnel leading directly to El Chapo's prison cell. This tunnel was nothing short of impressive, measuring over a mile in length and running deep beneath the prison complex. Its construction was a testament to the determination of those involved.

Construction Undercover

To cover their tracks, El Chapo's cartel purchased a plot of land near the prison and initiated construction on two seemingly abandoned homes. These unfinished structures were intended to conceal the tunnel's starting point and deter suspicion. The cartel took great care to avoid attracting attention from authorities and curious locals.

Tunneling in Secret

The tunnel's construction was a remarkable feat, considering the limited tools and equipment available to the builders. Working primarily with pickaxes and shovels, they dug through solid rock with incredible precision and caution. They couldn't afford the noise of modern digging equipment, which could potentially give away their secret operation.

The tunnel featured reinforced walls, wooden paneling for support, and a ventilation system powered by a generator to ensure a continuous supply of fresh air. Rails and a motorcycle mounted on tracks allowed for efficient transportation of tools, supplies, and, ultimately, El Chapo himself.

El Chapo's Great Escape

The critical moment came on July 12, 2015, when El Chapo climbed down into the tunnel from his prison cell. Inside the tunnel, he boarded a small motorcycle mounted on tracks and embarked on a surreal journey through the well-lit passageway. The tunnel provided just enough space for him to stand upright, demonstrating the attention to detail put into its construction.

Emerging into one of the unfinished homes above ground, El Chapo quickly changed into clean clothes. From there, he was whisked away in a waiting truck, disappearing into the night and leaving behind a remarkable tunnel escape.

Eluding Capture—Temporarily

El Chapo's newfound freedom was short-lived. Mexican authorities, determined to recapture the notorious drug lord, launched an extensive manhunt. After several months on the run, El Chapo was apprehended once more but not before attempting to bribe his way out of trouble.

A Second Tunnel Escape

Even after his recapture, El Chapo didn't give up hope of escaping justice. In a daring move, he and a senior lieutenant attempted another tunnel escape from a different location. This time, they made a quick getaway through a secret tunnel but were eventually apprehended by Mexican special forces.

Facing Extradition and Justice

El Chapo's days of eluding justice were numbered. Following his extradition to the United States, he faced a litany of charges related to drug trafficking and violence. Despite his ruthless reputation, he ultimately found himself begging for leniency, which U.S. authorities did not grant.

In conclusion, El Chapo's audacious tunnel escape remains a legendary feat of criminal ingenuity. It showcased the lengths to which he and his cartel would go to evade capture. However, justice ultimately caught up with him, and he now faces a lifetime behind bars in the United States.

incarceration

About the Creator

Micah Brunson

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.