Los Angeles, CA — Tensions escalated across parts of Los Angeles over the past 24 hours after a series of coordinated immigration enforcement operations prompted widespread protests. In response to the growing civil unrest, federal authorities authorized the deployment of approximately 2,000 National Guard troops to assist local law enforcement and secure key areas.
The protests, sparked by reports of aggressive ICE raids targeting undocumented individuals in East LA, South Central, and parts of the San Fernando Valley, quickly gained momentum. Demonstrators took to the streets, voicing opposition to what many called “heavy-handed tactics” and calling for greater transparency from federal immigration agencies.
Video footage shared online shows confrontations between protestors and officers, with authorities using crowd control measures including tear gas and flashbangs in some high-tension areas. City officials confirmed several arrests, citing failure to disperse and interference with law enforcement activity.
“We support peaceful demonstration, but we won’t tolerate violence or the disruption of critical infrastructure,” said LAPD Deputy Chief Maria Navarro during a press briefing late Saturday night.
Governor Gavin Newsom’s office issued a statement emphasizing the need for restraint and open dialogue, while federal agencies defended the raids as “targeted and lawful operations focused on individuals with outstanding removal orders.”
The deployment of National Guard units marks one of the most significant federal law enforcement responses in Los Angeles in recent years. Units have been stationed near transit centers, federal buildings, and designated protest zones.
