NEW YORK, N.Y. — A protest against a planned federal immigration operation escalated into street blockades and multiple arrests in Lower Manhattan on Saturday, after demonstrators surrounded a government parking garage used by Immigration and Customs Enforcement vehicles. The NYPD responded shortly before noon to Centre and Howard Streets, where officers encountered individuals obstructing exits, throwing debris, and preventing federal agents from leaving the facility, according to police statements.
Authorities said the incident began after social media posts urged protesters to gather at the location. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said individuals dressed in black clothing and protective gear formed a barrier at the garage entrance, prompting calls for NYPD assistance. When protesters refused repeated orders to disperse, at least 15 people were taken into custody.
Crowds grew to roughly 200 people by early afternoon, with demonstrators chanting and blocking vehicles during what appeared to be an immigration enforcement operation. Video obtained by reporters showed protesters shouting “ICE out of New York” as federal vehicles attempted to exit. Some agents were seen deploying a spray from vehicle windows as clashes intensified.
Advocates criticized the NYPD’s response, accusing the department of aiding ICE and escalating tensions. Immigration groups said the operation endangered residents in a sanctuary city, while the NYPD defended its response, stating it would “never apologize for enforcing the law and removing criminal illegal aliens.”
The incident unfolded near the site of an earlier large-scale immigration raid in Lower Manhattan last month.
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Sources:
• Newsweek – MBFC Rating
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