New York City authorities are investigating a series of incidents involving groups of people entering and exiting the city's extensive sewer system through manholes in Brooklyn and Queens. The unusual activity, captured on security cameras, has raised concerns among residents and officials about the purpose and safety of these underground excursions.

In one recorded incident early Friday morning in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, a group of approximately seven individuals emerged from a manhole located in the middle of a busy intersection. The group, some wearing headlamps and carrying tools such as shovels, appeared in full view of passing vehicles. In the footage, one individual narrowly avoided being struck by a car while climbing out of the sewer.

Another episode was documented in Brooklyn’s Gravesend neighborhood around 2 a.m., where a similar number of people exited a maintenance hole. After emerging, they proceeded to nearby parked cars and changed into fresh clothing. Police reported that this group had entered the sewer system around 11 p.m. earlier that night.

On May 5, a separate group — three individuals clad in waterproof hip waders and protective gear — was recorded opening a maintenance hole cover and descending into the sewer on a Queens street. The last person to enter closed the manhole cover behind them as nearby vehicles slowed down.

Local business owner Aki Jakupovic, who owns a car detailing shop in the area, said his surveillance cameras captured the Queens group’s activity. While unsure of their intentions, he expressed concern, stating that the visitors might be “up to no good.”

Representatives from New York’s Department of Environmental Protection emphasized the dangers and illegality of unauthorized sewer entry. Spokesperson Rob Wolejsza described the activity as “extremely dangerous” and discouraged public access to the underground system.

Residents near the Williamsburg location have voiced their own suspicions. Anthony Purdie, who lives close to the intersection where the second group appeared, suggested the group might have been searching for something valuable or involved in illicit activities. “I mean, seven adults going down there? Got to be something, man,” he said.

The city continues to investigate the incidents as authorities seek to ensure public safety and understand the motives behind these ventures into New York’s subterranean infrastructure.