El Paso Standard

An individual from Guatemala was arrested on a four-count indictment, accused of leading one of the largest human smuggling organizations in the United States. This organization reportedly facilitated the illegal entry of around 20,000 immigrants from Guatemala over five years. The defendant allegedly held some individuals hostage and is linked to the deaths of seven people, including a child, in a car accident in Oklahoma in November 2023. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), along with other agencies, is investigating.

“These arrests illuminate the dangers and victimization associated with aliens attempting to unlawfully enter our country,” stated John Pasciucco, acting Special Agent in Charge at ICE Homeland Security Investigations Los Angeles.

Eduardo Domingo Renoj-Matul, also known as Turko, aged 51, was arrested alongside Cristobal Mejia-Chaj, aged 49. Both are residents of Westlake near downtown Los Angeles. They were arraigned on February 28 and will stand trial on April 22 without bond.

Renoj-Matul allegedly led this smuggling operation from 2019 to July 2024. Other defendants include Helmer Obispo-Hernandez aka Xavi and Jose Paxtor-Oxlaj. All are Guatemalan nationals illegally residing in the U.S.

The charges against them include conspiracy to bring aliens into the U.S., transporting aliens within the country for financial gain resulting in death, among others. Additionally, Renoj-Matul and Mejia-Chaj face charges related to hostage-taking.

Obispo-Hernandez faces further charges for allegedly threatening an ICE officer following search warrants executed at his residence.

“These smuggling organizations have no regard for human life,” commented Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph T. McNally regarding their arrest.

The criminal organization operated for over twelve years specializing in moving illegal immigrants from Guatemala through Mexico into the U.S., using stash houses before distributing them across various destinations like Phoenix and Los Angeles.

In November 2023, a car accident caused by Paxtor-Oxlaj resulted in seven deaths during an attempted transport from New York to Los Angeles.

If convicted on all counts, each defendant could face maximum sentences ranging from life imprisonment to death.

Other arrests made include Rolando Gomez-Gomez aka Chaka and Juan Lopez Garcia aka Boxer under related charges connected to this organization.

Prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn J. Nelson and Elia Herrera while Tara B. Vavere manages asset forfeiture aspects of this case.

Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact ICE via their Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423).

Learn more about ICE HSI’s mission on social media platform X @HSILosAngeles.