Officers Throw Flash Bangs At Crowd Protesting Immigration Enforcement

Police officers in Los Angeles, California, used flash-bang grenades to disperse a crowd protesting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids on Friday (June 6). The protests erupted following a series of ICE operations that led to the detention of at least 44 individuals suspected of immigration violations, according to NewsNation.

The protests began after federal agents conducted raids at several locations, including a Home Depot in the Westlake District and a clothing store in the Fashion District. Protesters clashed with agents, leading to tense standoffs. The situation escalated when the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) declared an unlawful assembly and authorized the use of less-lethal munitions, including flash-bang grenades and tear gas, to disperse the crowd.

According to the Los Angeles Times, the raids and subsequent protests drew sharp criticism from local leaders. Mayor Karen Bass expressed anger over the raids, stating, "These tactics sow terror in our communities." Meanwhile, David Huerta, president of the Service Employees International Union California, was arrested during the protests for allegedly obstructing federal officers. His arrest was condemned by California Governor Gavin Newsom, who called Huerta "a respected leader, a patriot, and an advocate for working people."

The protests highlight ongoing tensions between local communities and federal immigration enforcement. As federal officials continue their operations, community advocates vow to resist what they describe as unjust actions against immigrants. The investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, a division of ICE, remains ongoing.