An individual from Guatemala has been apprehended on a four-count indictment, accused of leading a significant human smuggling operation in the United States. The organization reportedly facilitated the illegal entry of approximately 20,000 immigrants from Guatemala over five years. This case involves the tragic deaths of seven individuals, including a young child, resulting from a car accident in Oklahoma in November 2023.
John Pasciucco, acting Special Agent in Charge for ICE Homeland Security Investigations Los Angeles, commented on the arrests: “These arrests illuminate the dangers and victimization associated with aliens attempting to unlawfully enter our country.” He emphasized the commitment to dismantling such organizations to prevent further loss of life and secure borders.
Eduardo Domingo Renoj-Matul, known as Turko, aged 51, was arrested alongside Cristobal Mejia-Chaj on February 28. Both are residents of Westlake near downtown Los Angeles and were arraigned on the same day. Their trial is scheduled for April 22. The court ordered both defendants held without bond.
Renoj-Matul is alleged to have led one of the largest human smuggling networks in America since at least 2019. Alongside him are Helmer Obispo-Hernandez (Xavi) and Jose Paxtor-Oxlaj; both face charges related to transporting and harboring immigrants illegally for financial gain. A separate complaint accuses Obispo-Hernandez of threatening an ICE officer's family.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph T. McNally remarked: “These smuggling organizations have no regard for human life and their conduct kills.” He stated that enforcing immigration laws is crucial to preventing these dangerous operations.
The indictment alleges Renoj-Matul’s organization specialized in moving illegal immigrants within the U.S., particularly between Phoenix and Los Angeles. Mexican smugglers helped transport individuals through Mexico into Arizona before they reached Renoj-Matul’s associates who managed logistics stateside.
In addition to smuggling activities, it is alleged that victims unable to pay fees were held hostage until third parties provided payment for their release.
Renoj-Matul's group also involved transporting proceeds back to Phoenix for expenses incurred by collaborating Mexican smugglers.
The Elk City accident caused by Paxtor-Oxlaj resulted in fatalities among passengers being moved illegally across states. He faces additional charges due to his illegal reentry into the U.S., having been previously deported in 2010.
The prosecution team includes Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn J. Nelson and Elia Herrera focusing on narcotics and racketeering aspects while Tara B. Vavere handles asset forfeiture matters related to this case.
Authorities urge anyone with information about human smuggling activities to contact ICE via their tip line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423).
