Los Angeles: The border czar in President Donald Trump's Administration, Tom Homan, has issued a stark warning to local officials in California, threatening potential arrests if they continue to obstruct federal crackdowns on immigration protests.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Homan made it clear in an interview with NBC News that immigration enforcement operations would persist "every day" in Los Angeles, emphasizing that even prominent elected leaders such as Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass could face legal consequences if they interfere with federal agents. Both Newsom and Bass have criticized the federal campaign against immigration protests, arguing that it may heighten tensions.
Homan remained resolute despite the volatile protests against federal agents in Los Angeles, who were conducting immigration raids. He reiterated his commitment to daily enforcement, regardless of the opposition. "I'm telling you what, we're going to keep enforcing law every day in L.A. Every day in L.A., we're going to enforce immigration law. I don't care if they like it or not," Homan asserted.
The protests erupted in parts of Los Angeles County following reports of Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids, leading to widespread demonstrations. Protesters were seen confronting federal law enforcement officers, both on the ground and in vehicles, with at least one individual reportedly hit by a car they attempted to stop.
While many demonstrations remained peaceful, some escalated into confrontations where authorities resorted to deploying tear gas and firing what appeared to be less-lethal ammunition at the crowd. The Los Angeles Police Department arrested 11 individuals Saturday night for failing to disperse, as confirmed by a law enforcement source.
In response to the escalating situation, President Trump fulfilled his promise to deploy the National Guard, with Guard members arriving in Los Angeles on Sunday morning. Homan, who has previously threatened legal action against those obstructing immigration enforcement, did not rule out potential arrests of officials like Newsom or Bass.
Protests are expected to continue in Los Angeles on Sunday, with many residents expressing dissatisfaction with ICE's operational methods in the area.