‘Leave downtown Los Angeles’ police order rioters
Trump says 'bring in the troops', as protests over immigration raids rock Los Angeles for third straight day
Protests against federal immigration raids have entered their third day in downtown Los Angeles, prompting city officials to declare the area an “unlawful assembly zone” as tensions escalate.
Demonstrations began peacefully but turned violent over the weekend, with vehicles set ablaze and reports of looting surfacing. Authorities have responded with crowd control measures, including non-lethal rounds.
Among the injured are international journalists: a British photographer reportedly required surgery after being struck by a sponge bullet, while an Australian reporter was also hit with a non-lethal round while covering the unrest, according to British Broadcasting Corporation.
President Donald Trump reacted strongly on social media, saying, “Things look really bad in LA. Bring in the troops!” The White House has already ordered the National Guard into the city, a move that has sparked controversy, especially as California Governor Gavin Newsom has opposed federal military intervention.
While the protests have been largely confined to downtown Los Angeles, some signs of calm appeared on Sunday night. BBC correspondent Peter Bowes reported that the situation seemed quieter compared to the chaos seen during the day.
The ongoing unrest has drawn national and international attention, highlighting deep divisions over immigration enforcement and federal-state relations.
Meanwhile, around 60 people were arrested and three police officers injured after unrest broke out in San Francisco on Sunday evening.
According to police, the situation escalated when some individuals turned violent, committing assaults, vandalism, and damaging property, prompting authorities to declare an unlawful assembly. While many dispersed, some continued illegal activities, including damaging buildings and a patrol vehicle.
Two officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and one was hospitalized. Mayor Daniel Lurie condemned the violence, emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest and warning against targeting immigrant communities, stating such actions undermine the city’s safety.
