Multiple homeless individuals were found living in a storm drain in Canoga Park Thursday, which was later cleared.
KTLA 5 reported that the individuals gained access to the drain through a manhole on the sidewalk near the Los Angeles River and Bassett Street prior to being discovered.
The occupants were removed by rangers with the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority, who placed them in temporary housing on Thursday.
According to the station, the drain contained waste and debris and had to be cleaned out. The entrance to the storm drain was then sealed to prevent further access.
The cleanup operation in Canoga Park occurred about two days after city personnel cleared an encampment in a storm drain in South Los Angeles near the Harbor (110) Freeway.
KTLA 5 reported that several nearby residents said they had reported incidents of crime, including drug use and vandalism over the past year, but alleged that city officials did not address the issue.
”Obviously, we’re very concerned,” said Los Angeles Department of Public Works spokeswoman Heather Johnson.
Johnson added that residents with concerns about storm drain encampments should call 311 or contact the city to report what they are seeing so crews can respond and keep the drains clean and secure.