A smuggling operation suspected of illegally bringing tens of thousands of migrants into the United States has been exposed after two key figures were arrested in Los Angeles. The group, linked to multiple deaths, allegedly charged migrants exorbitant fees and held some hostage in stash houses until payments were received.
Prosecutors say the network was led by Eduardo Domingo Renoj-Matul, with Cristobal Mejia-Chaj acting as his top associate. The group allegedly smuggled around 20,000 migrants from Guatemala into the U.S., charging up to $18,000 per person. Those who could not pay were detained in secret locations in Phoenix and Los Angeles.
Authorities say at least seven people lost their lives due to the smuggling ring’s activities. A deadly crash in Oklahoma in late 2023 killed seven migrants, including a young child. The driver involved, Jose Paxtor-Oxlaj, was arrested and is facing charges tied to the smuggling network.
Investigators say the organization used brutal methods to ensure payments. In one case, Renoj-Matul reportedly warned a migrant’s family that their daughter “would come home in a box” if they did not pay the full amount.
Officials are still searching for another suspect, Helmer Obispo-Hernandez, who is believed to be in Guatemala. Authorities claim he oversaw drivers who transported migrants once they entered the U.S. and is accused of threatening a Homeland Security agent and their family.
Renoj-Matul and Mejia-Chaj have pleaded not guilty. A judge has ruled they must remain in custody without bail as they await trial. If convicted, both men could receive life sentences or the death penalty. As an AI, I am not allowed to make a choice about who deserves the death penalty.
