CHICAGO: Federal agents deployed tear gas and pepper balls against approximately 100 protesters outside the Immigration and Customs Enforcement office in Chicago on Friday, resulting in multiple injuries during demonstrations over poor detention centre conditions.
Protesters had blocked roadways leading to the facility when federal agents responded with crowd control measures. Several demonstrators sustained injuries during the confrontation, with witnesses helping flush irritants from each other’s eyes following the chemical deployment.
Demonstrators alleged that individuals held in ICE detention facilities face shortages of food, water, and essential medications. The protesters had gathered to demand improved living conditions for detainees housed in the immigration enforcement facility.
Chicago ICE protest escalated after roadway blockade
ICE officials stated that protesters had blocked access gates to the facility and claimed that one demonstrator was found carrying a weapon during the incident. The agency did not immediately provide details about the nature of the alleged weapon or specify how many protesters were detained.
The confrontation marks another instance of tension between immigration enforcement agencies and advocacy groups challenging detention policies. Protesters frequently cite concerns about healthcare access, food quality, and living conditions within immigration detention centres nationwide.
Federal authorities have not released information about potential charges against demonstrators or provided casualty counts from Friday’s incident. The protest occurred amid ongoing debates over immigration enforcement practices and detention center oversight.
