The Department of Homeland Security has released images of firearms confiscated from anti-ICE protesters in Chicago following an investigation into an explosive device found near an ICE facility. Authorities have arrested 11 protesters and are examining the incident, which has drawn political attention from Trump officials. The incident unfolded amid ongoing protests against immigration enforcement, with Trump officials criticizing a blue-state governor for failing to address the disorder.
The situation escalated further with law enforcement deploying tear gas and pepper balls during a standoff, highlighting the volatile nature of the protests. The confrontation came just two days after a shooter opened fire at an ICE facility in Dallas, Texas, where one detainee was killed and two others injured before the shooter took his own life. At least 50 protesters were seen at an ICE processing center in Broadview, Illinois, with two being arrested, one of whom was found to be carrying a firearm.
Law enforcement officials attempted to clear the protesters from the area, with video footage showing demonstrators trying to block vehicles from leaving. Last week, violent clashes between protesters and ICE agents at the facility led to 16 arrests. The DHS reported that rioters and sanctuary politicians obstructed law enforcement, threw tear, gas cans, rocks, bottles, and fireworks, slashed tires of cars, blocked the entrance of the building, and trespassed on private property, while also assaulting law enforcement officials.
The site is being used as the main processing center for Operation Midway Blitz, a massive immigration enforcement action focused on Illinois. The incident underscores the growing tensions between immigration enforcement agencies and protesters, raising questions about public safety and the potential for further escalation.