Several individuals detained after demonstrators obstruct federal agents at Manhattan parking garage

Over a dozen protesters were detained in Lower Manhattan on Saturday as they attempted to interfere with federal immigration enforcement, according to a law enforcement source. Footage from the scene shows demonstrators linking arms and chanting ICE out of New York to prevent federal agents from leaving a parking garage. Some individuals reportedly threw planters at federal vehicles, prompting officers to deploy what appeared to be pepper spray to control the crowd.

This event is part of ongoing nationwide demonstrations opposing federal immigration actions under the Trump administration. The protest occurred near Foley Square, which hosted a larger demonstration last month following an ICE operation in Chinatowns Canal Street, a heavily trafficked area known for street vendors selling counterfeit merchandise.

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson stated that people dressed in black with backpacks, masks, and goggles obstructed officers after social media posts revealed ICEs location, putting agents at risk amid rising assaults on law enforcement. The spokesperson emphasized that violent behavior against officers would lead to prosecution.

Ricky Patel, special agent in charge of New Yorks Homeland Security Investigations, reportedly apologized to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch regarding the enforcement operation, which Tisch criticized for endangering the public and law enforcement. She warned that aggressive tactics creating chaos on city streets could result in injuries.

The incident began just before noon when NYPD responded to a 911 call about a disruptive group near Chinatown. Officers observed protesters blocking streets and exits, throwing debris, and refusing repeated orders to disperse. Multiple individuals were arrested as a result.

Initially, the protest was peaceful, with demonstrators gathered in front of a closed garage before moving to a street corner, chanting and confronting officers. Federal agents at the scene were armed and many wore face coverings. When the garage opened, protesters formed a barricade using wood, cardboard, and trash bins to block a vehicle, which led to further confrontation and at least one arrest, later released.

City Council member Julie Menin described federal immigration agents actions as utterly irresponsible, highlighting the risk posed to both the public and NYPD officers. The New York Immigration Coalition, representing more than 200 immigrant and refugee organizations statewide, condemned the response to protesters and called for the immediate release of those detained.

Author: Sophia Brooks