Violence Erupts in Los Angeles During California Immigration Crackdown

In rapidly unfolding events across California, U.S. authorities have announced the deployment of 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to various locations throughout the state, responding to sustained protests against President Donald Trump’s campaign targeting undocumented immigrants.
The National Guard commander reported that the deployed forces include 2,000 active-duty soldiers and 2,000 in reserve status, tasked primarily with protecting federal facilities. He noted that the deployment could extend to cities beyond Los Angeles if the protests continue to spread. Some National Guard personnel have been temporarily authorized to detain individuals until law enforcement arrives.
Violent Clashes and Mass Arrests
Since Friday evening, Los Angeles has witnessed violent protests concentrated in downtown areas, Paramount, and Compton, following immigration raids by ICE that resulted in the arrest of more than 40 individuals.
In response to the demonstrations, police—supported by thousands of National Guard troops equipped with riot gear—used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse protesters who blocked Highway 101 and set fire to autonomous vehicles owned by Waymo. Protesters also threw objects at police officers, leading to numerous arrests.
Los Angeles police reported injuries to two officers and arrested 203 protesters for violating the ban on demonstrations, along with 17 individuals for curfew violations and three others for possession of weapons.
Curfew Imposed and De-escalation of Violence
Los Angeles Mayor John Bass issued a comprehensive curfew order in downtown areas, effective from Tuesday evening, aiming to contain protests that had lasted for four consecutive days. Police confirmed that 25 protesters were arrested by 9 PM Tuesday for breaching the curfew, which runs from 8 PM to 6 AM.
Convoys of U.S. Marines arrived at sites in Orange County, including the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station, under tight security. Troops are also stationed at other facilities such as Los Alamitos and National Guard armories in the area.
General Gregory Geo clarified that the Marines’ authority is limited to protecting federal property and personnel and does not include the power to arrest civilians.
White House: No Tolerance for Chaos
The White House issued a series of stern statements emphasizing that President Trump will not tolerate "mob violence," blaming Democratic officials in California for failing to control the security situation.
The statement underscored the continuation of mass deportations of undocumented immigrants, asserting that Trump has popular mandate to restore order, and warned that any attempts to replicate the Los Angeles scenario in other cities will be met with decisive action.
California Files Lawsuit Against Trump Administration
In response, California has filed a lawsuit challenging the deployment of National Guard forces, arguing that the move violates the Tenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which limits federal government intervention in state affairs.
The lawsuit was filed by Attorney General Rob Bonta on behalf of the state and Governor Gavin Newsom, amid widespread criticism from local officials who view the federal troop deployment as an unjustified escalation that risks exacerbating social and security tensions.