Federal agents arrested more than 40 people Friday in multiple locations in downtown Los Angeles, running search warrants.
A total of four search warrants were provided at three different locations in Los Angeles, according to Yasmin Pitts O’Keefe of Homeland Security Research, a branch of the US Department of Homeland Security.
Federal agents were also in custody at Home Depot’s parking lot in the Westlake area on Wilshire Boulevard near MacArthur Park, and two office-like apparel in downtown Los Angeles, one on Town Avenue and the other East 15th Avenue.
Tactical equipment and helmet officials were seen walking through the streets of the fashion district as armored trucks continued.
US Attorney Bill Essayri confirmed that a search warrant was provided to NBC Los Angeles on Friday.
Overall, 44 people were arrested “administratively” and another person was arrested for obstruction,” Pitts O’Keefe added.
The FBI’s Los Angeles office has also confirmed that its agents have been asked to support a homeland security investigation into “immigration projects” that provide investigation and technical support.
“The FBI is supporting the Department of Homeland Security’s partners, as directed by the Attorney General,” FBI’s Laura Eimiller added that FBI special agents are embedded in their operations team with the Department of Homeland Security.
“Our help may vary depending on what DHS needs, such as SWAT operators. These are things that can support high-risk arrest operations, and other resources such as intelligence analysts and technical support from command posts,” Eimiller explained.
The immigrant raid has sparked halt and rage among Los Angeles officials and immigrant advocates, with several immigrant groups, including a coalition of humanitarian immigration rights protesting Friday evening.
Following one of the rally, hundreds of demonstrators marched along the streets of downtown LA. There was at least one vandalism as protesters sprayed graffiti on federal buildings.
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