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The New York Police Department believes it has uncovered the motive behind recent unusual activity involving individuals entering manholes in Brooklyn and Queens. Over the past few days, surveillance footage captured at least three groups of people descending into manholes, equipped with shovels and flashlights. The NYPD suspects these individuals are scavenging for valuables that may have inadvertently entered the city's sewer system.
According to the New York Post, the incidents, which occurred in neighborhoods such as Williamsburg and Gravesend, involved groups of men entering and exiting the sewers during the early hours. Despite the unauthorized nature of these excursions, police have confirmed that there is no threat to public safety. The NYPD, along with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, conducted thorough investigations and found no damage to the sewer system.
The practice of urban scavenging for items like coins, scrap metal, or jewelry is more common in other countries, but it appears to have surfaced in New York City. The NBC News reports that no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Authorities, including the NYPD K-9 unit and the Fire Department of New York, responded to the scenes to ensure the areas were safe. A spokesperson for the Department of Environmental Protection emphasized the dangers of entering sewers, citing risks such as noxious gases and unstable surfaces.
Council Member Susan Zhuang praised the quick response by law enforcement and reiterated the dangers associated with entering the sewer system. She urged the public to report any such activity immediately by calling 911.
The NYPD continues to investigate whether the incidents are connected and advises the public to avoid entering the sewer system due to the inherent risks involved.
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