Downtown LA ‘No Kings Day’ Protest Turns Chaotic｜Police Declare Unlawful Assembly, Use Tear Gas and Flash Bangs

#NoKingsDayProtest #LosAngelesProtest #LAPDDispersalOrder #ImmigrationRaid #TearGas #FlashBang #DTLAUnrest #TrumpAdministrationProtest

Thousands Protest Trump Administration Nationwide

More than 2,000 “No Kings Day” protests took place across the U.S. on Saturday in response to the Trump administration’s actions and a military parade held in Washington, D.C. While most demonstrations were peaceful, downtown Los Angeles witnessed escalating tensions by nightfall.

LAPD Issues Dispersal Order Amid Escalating Tensions

The Los Angeles Police Department issued a dispersal order around 3:48 p.m. in the Civic Center area of DTLA. According to LAPD, some demonstrators began throwing rocks, bottles, bricks, and other objects at officers, prompting the deployment of “less lethal” crowd-control tactics, including tear gas and rubber bullets.

Unlawful Assembly Declared Following Violence

LAPD Deputy Chief Emada Tingirides stated that the protest initially gathered 20,000–30,000 peaceful participants. However, when projectiles were thrown at officers, authorities declared the gathering an unlawful assembly. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department joined LAPD in crowd dispersal efforts.

Marines and ICE Conduct Immigration Raid at Swap Meet

Meanwhile, at Santa Fe Springs Swap Meet, federal agents—some accompanied by armed Marines—conducted an apparent immigration raid. Several individuals were detained. Witnesses reported being questioned about their nationality and photographed by agents. The raid shocked many attendees, especially those who were present for a Saturday night concert that was ultimately canceled.

Flash Bangs, Tear Gas Used to Clear Protesters

As the crowd initially resisted dispersal, LASD deployed flash bangs and tear gas around 5:45 p.m. to clear remaining protesters. According to LAPD, protestors had allegedly thrown concrete, fireworks, and other dangerous items at officers. Media and civilians were warned to evacuate the area near Temple and Spring Streets.

Public Voices: Local DJ Big Boy Speaks Out

Iconic LA DJ Big Boy joined the protest, expressing support for immigrant communities and criticizing ICE raids. “We’re tired,” he said. “Snatching people up from jobs and schools is not humane. No matter your political stance, you should see this as wrong.”

Curfew Enforcement Reduces Looting Incidents

An 8 p.m. citywide curfew helped prevent further damage. LAPD reported no looting or burglaries in the downtown area for four consecutive days since the curfew’s implementation. Authorities emphasized the curfew’s role in restoring public safety and protecting peaceful demonstrators.

Summary: Protest Ends with Mass Dispersal and Arrests

The “No Kings Day” protest in downtown LA, though peaceful at its start, ended in a dramatic clash between demonstrators and law enforcement. With mass arrests, use of force, and concerns over civil liberties and immigration enforcement, the day reflected deepening divisions and rising tensions in Southern California.