Protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took a chaotic turn in New York City on Saturday night, leading to multiple arrests and damage across the area.
Thousands of people gathered in the streets of Midtown Manhattan to express their anger over ICE raids and detentions, especially following a recent controversial operation that took place in Buffalo.
According to the NYPD, the protests started peacefully in Times Square around 5 p.m. but soon escalated into aggressive confrontations with police officers.
Demonstrators marched through the streets shouting anti-ICE slogans, waving banners, and demanding an end to what they described as “state-sponsored violence” and “unlawful detentions.”
Witnesses said things turned violent when a smaller group of protesters began blocking traffic and throwing objects. Police officers in riot gear quickly stepped in to control the crowd. Videos shared online showed scuffles between police and demonstrators, and at one point, smoke could be seen rising from trash fires set along the streets.
Authorities confirmed that at least 45 individuals were arrested for charges including disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and obstruction. Several protesters also claimed excessive force was used during arrests, with some reporting injuries caused by batons and pepper spray.
Among those arrested was activist Amani Clarke, a member of a local advocacy group. She said, “We were peacefully marching, and suddenly we were surrounded.
They pushed us to the ground without any warning.” Clarke also claimed she saw officers dragging protesters into unmarked vehicles, a tactic that has drawn criticism in previous protests.
Police Commissioner Edward Caban defended the department’s response, stating that the protests became unsafe and officers had to step in to maintain public order. “While we respect the right to protest, violence, vandalism, and blocking emergency routes will not be tolerated,” he said in a brief statement.
The protests were sparked by growing frustration after reports of increased ICE activity in New York State, particularly an incident in Buffalo where residents say ICE agents used force to detain immigrants without showing proper identification or warrants.
Civil rights groups have accused the agency of violating constitutional protections, and local officials are now demanding transparency from federal authorities.
Mayor Eric Adams acknowledged the public concern and said his office is looking into the Buffalo incident. “Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe and respected, no matter their background or immigration status,” he said. “We are working with state and federal partners to make sure the rights of all individuals are protected.”
Immigration advocates are also calling for an end to cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE. Many argue that such collaborations make immigrant communities more vulnerable and afraid to seek help or report crimes.
On Sunday, several advocacy groups held a press conference demanding that the city end all ICE-related operations and focus on protecting undocumented families from raids and deportations.
Despite the violence on Saturday, organizers have promised more rallies in the coming weeks. “This isn’t over,” said Lucia Torres, another protester and community leader. “We will keep showing up until ICE is abolished and immigrant families are no longer living in fear.”
As tensions remain high, New Yorkers are divided over the ongoing protests. While some support the demonstrators’ message, others are concerned about the disruption and growing unrest. With more protests expected, city officials are now working to find a balance between free speech and maintaining public order.