Everything We Know About the LA Protests
- Edition Sona Times
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
Mass arrests, federal intervention, and public outcry: Los Angeles faces unrest after controversial ICE raids.
LOS ANGELES, June 9, 2025 — The city of Los Angeles has become the epicenter of national attention following a wave of protests triggered by sweeping immigration raids conducted by federal agencies. What began as a coordinated operation quickly escalated into widespread civil unrest, raising questions about constitutional authority, community trust, and the militarization of urban spaces.
What Sparked the Protests?
On June 6, federal agencies — including ICE, the FBI, and the ATF — launched joint raids across multiple commercial zones in Los Angeles. Over 100 people were detained, most of them undocumented immigrants, sparking immediate backlash from immigrant advocacy groups and local residents.
The most dramatic clash occurred at the Metropolitan Detention Center, where protestors gathered after videos emerged showing aggressive tactics by federal agents. Stun grenades were deployed, tear gas filled the streets, and the LAPD declared a citywide tactical alert.
Violence and Escalation
Over the next 72 hours, protests intensified. Demonstrators blocked major roads, including the 101 Freeway, and several vehicles — including Waymo self-driving cars — were set ablaze. Reports also indicated the use of Molotov cocktails, fireworks, and clashes with mounted police units.
Law enforcement responded with mass arrests, flash-bang grenades, and curfews in parts of Downtown LA. Over 100 protesters were taken into custody by June 9.
Federal Troops Enter the Scene
President Donald Trump, invoking federal authority under Title 10, deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to LA — without formal approval from California Governor Gavin Newsom. The move was sharply criticized by state officials, who accused the federal government of violating constitutional norms and escalating the situation unnecessarily.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also placed active-duty Marines at Camp Pendleton on alert, signaling that the administration was prepared for further confrontation if unrest continued.
State and Local Leaders Respond
Governor Newsom publicly condemned the federal deployment, calling it a "gross overreach" and vowing legal action. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass echoed the sentiment, stating that local authorities were already working to de-escalate tensions and restore order without military involvement.
"The use of federal troops on our streets sends the wrong message," Mayor Bass said in a press briefing. "We need unity and reform — not occupation."
What Happens Next?
While the scale of violence appears to be decreasing, organizers have pledged to continue with peaceful demonstrations and freeway blockades in the coming days. Social media has been flooded with calls for accountability, legal support, and nationwide solidarity.
This moment marks a volatile intersection of immigration policy, civil liberties, and public trust. As Los Angeles grapples with the fallout, the rest of the nation is watching closely.
QUICK FACTS: LA PROTESTS
Date of Trigger: June 6, 2025
Cause: ICE-led raids and mass arrests
Federal Response: 2,000 National Guard troops deployed
Local Reaction: Legal pushback from CA governor and LA mayor
Casualties/Arrests: Over 100 arrested; property damage reported
Current Status: Protests ongoing, curfews in effect
Comments