ICE Raids Spark Protests in Downtown Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES – At least 44 individuals were arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Friday during coordinated raids across the downtown area, escalating a controversial immigration crackdown that drew fierce protests. The operation, part of a broader initiative by the Trump administration to forcibly deport immigrants, faced backlash from community members and civil rights organizations.
On Saturday, Border Patrol agents donning riot gear were seen at an industrial park in Paramount, California, as protesters voiced their discontent. A woman using a megaphone led chants against ICE, emphasizing the message, “You are not welcome here,” while signs reading “No Human Being is Illegal” were prominently displayed. The protests intensified near the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building, where demonstrators blocked access points to support those being detained.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) condemned the raids, referring to ICE agents as “masked goons” and calling for local officials to take a stand against what they described as an oppressive and paramilitary operation. “We ask our elected officials to uphold their commitments to all Angelenos, regardless of immigration status,” their statement declared.
Amid the turmoil, White House aide Stephen Miller characterized the protests as an “insurrection against the laws and sovereignty of the United States,” criticizing LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell for refusing to assist ICE. The raids align with President Trump’s objective to ramp up deportations, aiming for a record 3,000 arrests daily.
Mayor Karen Bass condemned the operation, stating, “These tactics sow terror in our communities.” In response, ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons criticized Bass, asserting that the agency would persist in enforcing immigration laws. The ongoing conflict highlights the deep divisiveness surrounding immigration policy in the U.S. as local communities grapple with federal enforcement actions.
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