Mystery under New York: What are the 'mole people' doing in the manholes?

An unusual phenomenon has emerged from New York City's underbelly, with two separate incidents in Brooklyn involving groups of men climbing out of manholes in the early morning hours. The New York Police Department (NYPD) and the Department of Environmental Protection are investigating these peculiar appearances, which have caused concern among local residents. However, sources suggest that these activities are not linked to criminal behavior. Instead, authorities believe the men are engaged in a practice known as urban treasure hunting, searching for valuable items that may have accidentally fallen into the city's vast sewer system. This includes items like coins, wallets, metals, or jewelry. While this type of scavenging is reportedly more prevalent in other countries, it has raised eyebrows in New York. The first incident occurred last Friday around 1 a.m. in Williamsburg, where a group was seen entering and exiting a manhole. Later that night, a similar event took place in Gravesend, with another group emerging from a manhole on McDonald Avenue. Videos circulating online show men removing manhole covers, descending into the darkness, and later emerging with flashlights, carrying their findings. Some were seen wearing boots and raincoats, which they removed on the sidewalk before loading their discoveries into waiting vehicles. Residents near the Gravesend incident expressed surprise, with one long-time shop owner stating he had never heard of such a thing. The NYPD has stated there is no immediate threat to the public, but the investigation continues to determine if the two Brooklyn incidents are connected.

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I've been here 15 years, I've never heard of anything like it.