Tensions Boil Over in LA: Police Order Evacuation Amid Violent Protests Over ICE Raids

June 9, 2025: Downtown Los Angeles has been declared an “unlawful assembly” zone after immigration-related protests turned violent for a third consecutive day, prompting citywide alerts, arrests, and federal intervention. The unrest follows a series of controversial immigration raids carried out by federal authorities, triggering widespread outrage.

Protests began on Friday after U.S. immigration officials arrested dozens of individuals in raids across the city, claiming the detainees were undocumented immigrants and gang members. What started as peaceful demonstrations outside a downtown detention center quickly escalated into chaos by Sunday.

As tensions peaked, President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of more than 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles. The president warned that federal forces would step in if local authorities failed to manage the situation, describing protesters as “rioters and looters.”

Mask Ban and Federal Crackdown

In a controversial move, Trump also banned the use of face masks at protests, ordering law enforcement to detain anyone violating the new regulation. “From now on, MASKS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED to be worn at protests,” Trump posted on social media, raising concerns about civil liberties and protester safety.

By Sunday evening, protesters had clashed with both local police and National Guard troops. Security forces responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and flashbangs to control crowds blocking major freeways and setting fire to several Waymo self-driving vehicles. At least three autonomous cars were reportedly torched.

Multiple injuries have been reported. A British journalist underwent surgery after being hit by a sponge bullet, and an Australian reporter was shot with a non-lethal round while covering the protests.

Political Fallout and Arrests

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirmed at least 56 arrests over the weekend, with three officers injured. Meanwhile, U.S. Northern Command said 500 Marines are on standby if the situation deteriorates further.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has condemned Trump’s actions, accusing the president of “inciting violence” and violating state sovereignty. “This is a serious breach,” Newsom said, adding, “We didn’t have a problem until Trump got involved.”

Backing the governor, Democratic leaders including Senator Kamala Harris described Trump’s move as a “dangerous escalation”. In contrast, Republican lawmakers defended the federal response. House Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed criticism, saying Newsom had failed to control the situation.

Trump, in a series of posts, lashed out at both Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass, calling them “incompetent” and blaming them for the unrest. “These are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists,” he wrote.