Police Investigate Groups Entering NYC Sewers

Police in New York City are investigating surveillance footage that captured small groups of people entering and exiting the city's sewer system in Brooklyn and Queens in recent days. Authorities stress that entering the 7,400 miles of sewer pipes is both illegal and dangerous. Former urban explorer Steve Duncan, who documented the sewer system years ago, believes the groups were likely explorers traversing 19th-century sewer mains that can exceed 6 feet in diameter. These tunnels, some of which trace the paths of natural waterways, are now part of the city's underground infrastructure. Duncan described the most unpleasant aspect of sewer exploration as the cockroaches, which he said were more bothersome than rats, smells, or germs. The videos suggest some groups spent up to three hours underground, navigating slippery, humid environments and flowing water. Police do not believe there is any threat to the public but are still investigating the incidents.