A significant federal investigation has led to the dismantling of a large human smuggling ring in the United States. Four individuals have been indicted for smuggling an estimated 20,000 undocumented immigrants from Guatemala to the U.S. The group is accused of exploiting vulnerable individuals, holding them hostage, and causing a fatal car crash in Oklahoma that resulted in the deaths of seven people, including three minors.
Federal authorities have charged the accused with operating a transnational criminal organization, which smuggled the undocumented immigrants through Mexico into the United States. The group is also accused of extorting additional fees from the immigrants, holding those unable to pay hostage, and threatening violence against their families back in Guatemala.
The ringleader, Eduardo Domingo Renoj-Matul, and his associate, Marsha Char, have been arrested and have pleaded not guilty to the charges. A trial date is being scheduled. Helmer Obispo-Hernandez, another defendant, remains a fugitive and is also charged with threatening a federal law enforcement officer. A fourth defendant, in custody in Oklahoma, faces charges related to the fatal accident.
While the organization has been active for over a decade, the exact timeframe during which the 20,000 individuals were smuggled remains unclear. Additionally, details regarding the gender composition of those smuggled and the percentage of women are yet to be disclosed. Investigators are also continuing to search for additional suspects and any ties to criminal cartels.
The organization, which operated covertly for years, first caught the attention of Border Patrol agents in 2021. A major operation involving multiple federal agencies culminated in the takedown of the organization earlier this year, leading to several arrests and a search for fugitive suspects.
The smuggling ring specialized in transporting undocumented immigrants, primarily from Guatemala, into the United States. Using stash houses, the organization demanded additional fees for transportation within the U.S. Those who couldn’t pay were subjected to violence and threats, and their families were extorted for ransom. The organization also laundered funds through Los Angeles-based financial institutions.
Joe McNally, the acting U.S. Attorney, expressed concern over the organization’s blatant disregard for both U.S. immigration laws and the safety of the individuals being smuggled. Duane Engelbrecht, a deputy special agent, warned of the dangers of the human smuggling ring and called for public support in combating these crimes. Greg Bovino, Chief of the Border Patrol, praised the successful, collaborative efforts of law enforcement in bringing down the organization.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue their pursuit of additional suspects and any potential cartel connections. Law enforcement is urging the public to report any information related to human trafficking or smuggling activities to assist in future operations.
