A protest outside the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) offices in San Francisco turned violent on Sunday night, resulting in the arrest of around 60 people, including minors, authorities confirmed.
The demonstration began peacefully near Sansome and Washington streets at about 7:00 p.m., with hundreds of people rallying against ICE raids and deportations across California and the United States. However, tensions quickly escalated as protesters clashed with San Francisco police officers in riot gear.
“We’ve been watching what’s going on in L.A., and we’re like, no,” said protester Nancy Kato, speaking to CNN affiliate KGO. “Going after immigrants and undocumented people — the most vulnerable of our population — that is so wrong.”
Police reported that some demonstrators vandalised property, committed assaults, and caused damage in the Financial District. The protest was declared an “unlawful assembly,” prompting many attendees to disperse. However, a number remained, leading to arrests.
The protest moved through several downtown streets, including Market and Kearny, where additional property damage occurred, including to a San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) patrol car. A final group gathered on Montgomery Street and refused to leave after police issued orders to disperse. Officers moved in to detain those who did not comply and recovered one firearm at the scene.
Two officers were injured in the chaos, with one hospitalised for non-life-threatening injuries.
“Individuals are always free to exercise their First Amendment rights in San Francisco,” SFPD said in a statement. “But violence — especially against SFPD officers — will never be tolerated.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have yet to release the identities of those arrested or further details about the damage.
Melissa Enoch
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