The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released video footage showing the arrest of a ‘violent rioter’ who allegedly assaulted a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer during ongoing protests in Los Angeles. The incident occurred amid heightened tensions following ICE operations that targeted criminal illegal aliens, including a convicted murderer from Vietnam. The video, shared by DHS on X, shows two HSI vehicles blocking a white sedan before officers emerged with guns drawn. The department described the arrest as a ‘targeted action’ against a rioter who attempted to flee in the vehicle after being accused of the assault.
DHS emphasized the increased threat to law enforcement, noting a 413% rise in assaults against agents as they carry out operations against violent individuals, including murderers and gang members. Secretary Kristi Noem’s message to the LA rioters was clear: ‘You will not stop us or slow us down.’ ICE and federal law enforcement partners will continue to enforce the law, and any act of violence against officers will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The incident occurred during riots that erupted after US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted operations targeting criminal illegal aliens at businesses across the city.
Among those arrested was Cuong Chanh Phan, a 49-year-old illegal alien from Vietnam with a criminal history that includes a conviction for second-degree murder. Phan was involved in a shooting incident at a high school graduation party, resulting in the deaths of an 18-year-old and a 15-year-old. Seven others were injured in the incident, according to DHS. The FBI also announced it was looking for Elpidio Reyna after he allegedly assaulted a federal officer during one of the anti-ICE demonstrations in Los Angeles. Reyna was captured on video throwing rocks at law enforcement vehicles, causing an injury to a federal officer and damage to government vehicles.
The protests have led to several arrests, with about 45 people detained in various locations, including two Home Depot stores, a store in the fashion district, and a doughnut shop. The California sheriff has also commented on the situation, suggesting that officials like Governor Newsom may have encouraged the riots. The situation has escalated to the point where President Trump has sent in the National Guard to quell violence and restore order in the city.