Protesters Block Federal Agents’ Path During NYC Immigration Raid
New York City, NY — Tensions flared in lower Manhattan on Saturday as protesters blocked federal agents from carrying out an immigration raid, resulting in several arrests. The demonstration, which occurred just before noon near Centre Street and Howard Street, led to disruptions as demonstrators sought to prevent agents from executing their mission.
According to the New York City Police Department (NYPD), officers responded to a call about a disorderly group blocking streets and parking garage exits. Video footage from the scene showed dozens of protesters gathered around a parking garage where Homeland Security vehicles were stationed. Some protesters were seen hurling debris at the law enforcement officers, while others carried signs reading “Stop the Deportations” and “ICE out of New York.”
Clashes Erupt as Protesters Block Vehicles
The protesters’ efforts were aimed at impeding federal immigration enforcement actions, though the specific nature of the raid remains unclear. Law enforcement set up barricades and metal fences around the perimeter to keep the crowd at bay. Officers wearing NYPD uniforms, as well as those identified with “Police Federal Officer” vests, worked to maintain control as protesters and officers clashed at the scene.
Several individuals who refused to disperse were detained, with video showing protesters pushing against the metal barriers and chanting in defiance. At one point, law enforcement was seen attempting to clear the streets of protesters by pushing through with a line of police vehicles. Sirens blared as protesters attempted to obstruct the vehicles’ path by standing in front of them or placing trash bins in their way.
A loudspeaker announcement from the NYPD urged the crowd to disperse, warning that failure to do so could lead to arrests. “You are unlawfully in the roadway and obstructing vehicular traffic,” the message said. “You are ordered to leave the roadway and utilize the available sidewalk. If you do so voluntarily, no charges will be placed against you.”
Multiple Arrests as Protest Escalates
Despite the police orders to clear the street, several protesters were arrested for blocking the path of federal agents. Footage showed officers dragging individuals into police vehicles while others continued to demonstrate by raising their fists and chanting.
NBC News reached out to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for comments, but did not receive an immediate response. The raid, which was likely linked to ongoing immigration enforcement operations, follows a similar action by federal agents in the same area last month, when officers targeted street vendors selling counterfeit goods, including jewelry, watches, and knockoff bags on Canal Street.
Background: Continued Immigration Raids in NYC
Saturday’s protest is part of a broader pattern of activism in response to U.S. immigration enforcement in New York City. Proponents of immigrant rights have increasingly clashed with federal immigration agents, particularly with the Trump administration’s aggressive stance on deportations. Local officials, including New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, have frequently criticized federal immigration policies, especially targeting vulnerable communities and undocumented individuals.
Despite vocal opposition from activists, federal immigration enforcement has remained a controversial issue, and protests like Saturday’s show no sign of abating. The ongoing demonstrations serve as a reminder of the deep divisions over how the U.S. should address immigration and the treatment of undocumented immigrants.
