Tensions exploded on Canal Street Tuesday afternoon when a federal immigration enforcement operation targeting street vendors spiraled into confrontation, with angry crowds surrounding agents and trying to block their movements.
The operation unfolded in the heart of Manhattan’s bustling counterfeit goods district, a stretch famous for its tables and storefronts offering imitation luxury handbags, watches, perfumes, sunglasses, and electronics.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as dozens of federal officers descended on the area. An Associated Press reporter saw agents detain a vendor believed to have been selling glitter-covered smartphone cases.
Protesters quickly gathered, chanting and shouting as they formed human barriers to stop the officers’ vehicles from leaving. “ICE out of New York,” the demonstrators yelled, as others demanded that the agents release the detained vendors.
In response, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents — joined by Border Patrol and other federal units — warned the crowd they would use pepper spray if the blockade continued. Several protesters were then taken into custody as the standoff escalated.
Moments later, reinforcements arrived — heavily armed federal agents in tactical gear, carrying long guns and deploying a military-style BearCat vehicle — prompting renewed clashes and more arrests.
A representative for Homeland Security Investigations said the operation was organized by Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations division, which focuses on locating and detaining individuals in the country illegally.
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{Matzav.com}
Should’ve opened fire