NYC police investigate sewer manhole entries in Brooklyn

Police are investigating after groups of people were seen entering and exiting sewer manholes in two Brooklyn neighborhoods late last week, prompting official safety inspections but no arrests. The incidents, which occurred in Gravesend and Williamsburg, remain under investigation as authorities work to determine the motives behind the unauthorized entries.

The first report came in around 11 p.m. on Thursday near McDonald Avenue and Colin Place in Gravesend. Authorities say at least seven individuals were seen removing a manhole cover and descending into the sewer system. Surveillance footage from a local outlet shows the group emerging from the same manhole around 2 a.m. on Friday. The video depicts the individuals exiting one by one, then gathering near parked cars where they removed soiled clothing. Some appeared to be wearing boots and protective gear, and some carried flashlights.

Approximately two hours later and roughly ten miles away, a separate incident was reported near Heyward Street and Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg. Police say eight people were seen entering a manhole there around 1 a.m. Friday and exiting more than two-and-a-half hours later, at approximately 3:40...