Portland police were forced to deploy tear gas and make multiple arrests after a No Kings Day protest descended into violent chaos outside an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility on Thursday evening.
The demonstration, organised by anti-monarchy activists, began peacefully but quickly escalated as masked protesters clashed with federal officers guarding the controversial immigration centre. Witnesses reported hearing flash-bang grenades and seeing projectiles thrown as tensions reached boiling point.
Chaotic Scenes Unfold
According to law enforcement officials, the situation deteriorated rapidly when protesters attempted to breach security barriers surrounding the federal building. Police declared the gathering an unlawful assembly and issued multiple dispersal orders before resorting to crowd control measures.
Thick clouds of tear gas filled the air as officers in riot gear moved to clear the area. Several protesters were seen using umbrellas as shields against less-lethal rounds fired by police.
Background of the Protest
The No Kings Day demonstration coincides with historical anti-monarchy sentiment in Portland and appears to have drawn together various activist groups, including:
- Anti-ICE campaigners
- Anarchist collectives
- Anti-monarchy protesters
- Immigration rights activists
This marks the latest in a series of tense confrontations at Portland's federal facilities, which have frequently been flashpoints for political demonstrations in recent years.
Aftermath and Ongoing Tensions
Medical volunteers on scene reported treating several protesters for exposure to chemical irritants, though the exact number of injuries remains unclear. Police confirmed multiple arrests but have not yet released specific charges.
The incident highlights the continuing political divisions in Portland and raises questions about security protocols at sensitive federal installations. Community leaders have called for calm while investigations into the evening's events continue.
