Demonstrators throw objects at California Highway Patrol vehicles on Highway 101, Sunday, 8 June 2025. Photo: Eric Thayer/AP
Violent clashes broke out in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday evening between protesters and law enforcement officers over immigration raids initiated by the administration of US President Donald Trump. According to CNN and BBC, the protesters took to the streets after the president signed a memorandum on the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to the city.
Police declared downtown Los Angeles an “unlawful assembly” and called on protesters to leave the area immediately. On Sunday evening, fireworks explosions and shots from non-lethal weapons were heard. At least five cars were reported burnt, and several police cars were damaged.
Law enforcement officers used stun grenades and rubber bullets in response to the demonstrators’ use of fireworks and incendiary items. Police said they were prepared to “use appropriate force” if provocations continued.
According to CNN, the clashes erupted after raids by the ICE migration service, which caused a wide public outcry. The protests turned violent after Trump ordered the deployment of troops, an unprecedented move in response to civil discontent.
