Protests in Los Angeles Lead to Arrests Amid Nationwide Demonstrations

The Los Angeles Police Department reported that 75 individuals were arrested following large-scale protests last Saturday. According to RTHK, the majority of arrests were due to refusal to disperse, including 66 adults and 8 minors, while one person was detained for illegal possession of a short sword or dagger. No injuries were reported among those arrested, although one officer sustained minor cuts and abrasions. The police department noted on social media that protesters threw large concrete blocks, bottles, and other items into a fenced area outside a facility, prompting federal law enforcement to deploy tear gas. Nationwide demonstrations erupted across the United States last Saturday, with approximately 100,000 people participating in protests in downtown Los Angeles. Protesters waved American flags and held signs criticizing U.S. President Donald Trump's administration over immigration, economic, and foreign policies, as well as the alleged illegal expansion of executive power. Despite the official end of the protest in the evening, many individuals remained near the Metropolitan Detention Center, close to the rally site. Police issued dispersal orders and deployed mounted units, batons, tear gas, and pepper spray to disperse the crowd. Organizers anticipated over 3,000 protest events across the nation, covering all 50 states and major cities such as Washington, New York, Philadelphia, and Boston. Media estimates suggest that around 9 million people participated in the demonstrations.