Dozens of activists clashed with law enforcement outside a New York City immigration court on Thursday, resulting in multiple arrests during a protest targeting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The demonstration, organised by immigrant rights groups, saw protesters blockading entrances and chanting slogans demanding the abolition of ICE. Police in riot gear eventually moved in to disperse the crowd after warnings were ignored.
Escalating Tensions
Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as officers began making arrests. "They were dragging people away just for exercising their right to protest," claimed one bystander who asked to remain anonymous.
The protest comes amid growing controversy over the Biden administration's immigration policies, which critics argue continue many hardline approaches from previous administrations.
Organisers Respond
In a statement released after the arrests, protest organisers vowed to continue their campaign. "We won't stop until ICE is dismantled and immigrant communities are safe," the statement read.
New York has become a focal point for immigration activism, with similar protests occurring regularly outside detention centres and government buildings across the city.
