Authorities in New York City have arrested two men involved in a series of recent incidents involving individuals entering the city’s sewer system in search of valuables. Kevin Rodriguez, 26, a U.S. citizen, and Samuel Reveron, 25, a Venezuelan national residing illegally in the country, were taken into custody Thursday in Queens following their activities near a hotel hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during the United Nations General Assembly.
According to court documents, Rodriguez and Reveron were part of a group of six people who were observed early Wednesday prying open a sewer cover near East 61st Street and Park Avenue, close to the Loews Regency New York hotel. Surveillance footage showed the group entering the sewer before resurfacing and departing in two vehicles. Law enforcement used license-plate readers and body-camera footage to identify and apprehend the suspects on charges including trespassing and conspiracy. Both men were arraigned in Manhattan court and subsequently released under supervision.
The arrests come amid growing public attention toward so-called “mole people” sightings across New York City. Over the past several months, residents and bystanders have reported seeing groups emerging from manholes in various neighborhoods, including Brooklyn and Queens. Some of the more recent encounters have occurred near major transit hubs and luxury hotels hosting world leaders, fueling local curiosity and concern.
Authorities and city officials have sought to clarify the motives behind these episodes. Prosecutors said the individuals involved have admitted to entering the sewer system to search for discarded or lost valuables such as gold or other items of value. One suspect allegedly told police, “We go into the sewer and look for valuables that get stuck in the storm drains and sewers.” Police investigations are ongoing, with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) confirming it is aware of the illegal entries but assuring the public that sewer infrastructure remains safe and secure.
Despite these claims, some experts cast doubt on the likelihood of finding treasure in the city’s sewer network. Steve Duncan, an experienced urban explorer and former founder of the group Undercity, noted that the sewer system’s strong water flow would typically remove debris or items quickly, leaving little chance for valuables to become lodged or remain accessible.
Residents living near some of the recent incident sites have expressed a mix of intrigue and unease over the sewer divers’ presence. Jerry, a day trader residing near Bensonhurst, where three individuals were reported climbing out of a manhole early Friday, said he hopes authorities will determine their intentions. Another local, Albert Gentile, described the activity as "alarming" but acknowledged his curiosity about the reasons behind the ventures into the underground system.
As the city contends with these unusual intrusions, law enforcement officials continue to monitor the situation and pursue those involved for trespassing, emphasizing public safety and infrastructure security in their response.