On Friday, federal agents apprehended two Guatemalan men near downtown Los Angeles for allegedly running one of the largest human smuggling operations in the United States. Eduardo Domingo Renoj-Matul and Cristobal Mejia-Chaj are accused of facilitating the illegal entry of approximately 20,000 immigrants from Guatemala into the U.S. since 2019.
Following their arrests, both suspects appeared in federal court, where they were ordered to be held without bond. If convicted, they could potentially face the death penalty for their involvement in the operation.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph McNally emphasized the disregard these smuggling organizations have for human life, stating that their actions have fatal consequences. The arrests of Renoj-Matul and Mejia-Chaj mark a significant blow to one of the country's most dangerous smuggling networks.
In addition to the two main suspects, two other individuals are implicated in the case. Jose Paxtor-Oxlaj is currently incarcerated in Oklahoma for his role in a fatal 2023 car crash that claimed the lives of seven migrants, while Helmer Obispo-Hernandez, described as a key figure in the smuggling ring, remains at large.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Los Angeles Acting Special Agent in Charge John Pasciucco underscored the commitment of law enforcement to dismantle such organizations that prioritize profits over human safety. The goal is to prevent further loss of life and ensure the security of the nation's borders.
Renoj-Matul, known as Turko, is believed to be the mastermind behind the operation, collaborating with associates in Guatemala who charged migrants substantial fees for safe passage to the U.S. Once in the country, migrants were subjected to additional charges for transportation to various states and Washington, D.C.
Prosecutors allege that migrants who failed to pay were held captive in a stash house within the same Los Angeles neighborhood where Renoj-Matul and Mejia-Chaj were apprehended. In a disturbing incident, Renoj-Matul reportedly threatened the mother of a hostage migrant, warning that she would face dire consequences if the smuggling fees were not paid.
Obispo-Hernandez, the alleged lieutenant in the operation, faces additional charges for threatening violence against a Homeland Security Investigations officer during a search warrant execution at his residence.
