Over 170 arrested nationwide as anti-ICE protests sweep US

Police across the United States arrested scores of demonstrators on June 8 and 9 as protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and federal immigration policies intensified.

In Manhattan, New York City police arrested approximately two dozen protesters outside Trump Tower on June 9. The arrests occurred during one of several coordinated demonstrations opposing recent immigration enforcement actions and the treatment of laboгr leaders and immigrant communities, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Other cities also saw arrests and confrontations. In San Francisco, over 150 people were taken into custody on June 8 following an anti-ICE protest that turned violent, with reports of vandalism and assault. In Santa Ana, California, police deployed tear gas to disperse demonstrators. Meanwhile, the Austin Police Department in Texas issued a public advisory urging drivers to watch for pedestrians as large crowds gathered downtown.

The wave of protests was sparked in part by the June 6 arrest of David Huerta, president of SEIU California and SEIU-USWW, who was detained by federal agents while observing an ICE raid in Los Angeles. Huerta was injured during the arrest, hospitalised, and later released. His treatment has fueled outrage among labour unions and immigrant rights advocates, leading to more than 30 solidarity protests across the country.

In Los Angeles, demonstrations continued for a fourth consecutive day on June 9. The city remains under heavy security, with President Trump ordering an additional 2,000 California National Guard members to be deployed, raising the total to 4,000 troops. The US Marines have also been deployed to assist in containing the protests.

Despite a significant police presence at many events on June 9, some officers reportedly maintained a passive stance, standing at a distance or engaging peacefully with protesters. However, tensions remain high as organisers anticipate further demonstrations and possible confrontations in the days ahead.

By Sabina Mammadli