The New York City Police Department is investigating a series of unauthorized entries into the city's sewer system after surveillance cameras captured multiple groups entering and exiting manholes at night in Brooklyn and Queens.
Security cameras recorded at least three distinct nighttime incidents of individuals traversing the underground tunnels.
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In one video from Williamsburg, Brooklyn, approximately seven people emerged from a manhole at an intersection, carrying tools and shovels while narrowly avoiding traffic.
Another incident in Gravesend, Brooklyn, showed seven individuals emerging from a manhole at 2 a. m.
after spending an estimated three hours underground.
Security footage from an auto detailing shop in Queens also captured three people wearing waterproof hip waders descending into a manhole on May 5.
Aki Jakupovic, owner of the auto detailing shop, expressed concern about the activities.
"I couldn't venture a guess as to what the people did below ground but worried they were 'up to no good,'" he said.
Safety Risks and Investigation
The New York City Department of Environmental Protection conducted structural inspections at both Brooklyn locations and confirmed no damage to the sewer infrastructure.
The agency stated the Queens incident remains under active investigation.
Rob Wolejsza, a spokesperson for the department, emphasized that unauthorized entry into sewer lines carries significant safety risks and violates city laws.
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"Sewers can contain numerous hazards, including noxious and potentially deadly gases, unstable surfaces, flooding risks, and confined spaces," he said.
The spokesperson noted safety protocols are paramount, especially after a fatal accident last month where a woman died after falling into an open Manhattan manhole dislodged by a vehicle.
"For these reasons, members of the public should never enter a pipe, drain, catch basin, manhole, or outfall," Wolejsza added.
Law enforcement officials conducted a sweep of the affected areas and determined the incidents do not pose an immediate public safety threat.
No injuries have occurred, no arrests have been made, and the investigation into the groups' motives is ongoing.
Anthony Purdie, a Williamsburg resident, questioned the intent of the individuals.
"They look like they were looking for something important, like money, or for doing some type of hurting," he said.
"Ain't no fun and games. I mean, seven grown adults going down there?
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Got to be something, man."
