A federal law enforcement operation in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Tuesday sparked a large protest, leading to clashes between protesters and law enforcement. The incident occurred in the Payne-Phalen neighborhood near Maryland Avenue East and Payne Avenue.
Protests Erupt Over Suspected ICE Raid
A large crowd gathered, believing the operation to be an ICE raid. Protesters held signs and chanted against ICE as federal agents, including ICE agents and a U.S. Marshals task force, worked inside a home. St. Paul police officers were also present, assisting with crowd control.
Tear Gas and Pepper Spray Deployed
As agents cleared the scene, police used tear gas to disperse protesters who were blocking vehicles. Reports indicate that pepper balls and other chemical irritants were also deployed by law enforcement. A WCCO crew filmed a white van deploying spray into the crowd, and tear gas canisters were reportedly used as St. Paul police cars attempted to leave the area.
City Officials Respond
City Councilmember Hwa Jeong Kim expressed outrage, stating, "This is completely unacceptable... Their job is to keep us safe." She also claimed that she and other elected leaders were tear gassed by St. Paul officers. St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter arrived at the scene, stating he had questions about the events and promising an investigation.
Uncertainty Surrounds the Operation's Purpose
The exact nature of the federal operation remains unclear. FOX 9 reports that they have not been able to confirm whether the operation was related to immigration enforcement or a criminal investigation. Agents at the scene told FOX 9 they were looking for two people, one of whom fled into a house.
St. Paul Police Chief Axel Henry stated that the city's police force does "not do anything that is solely immigration focused" but would assist federal agents if a situation escalated.
The incident is under investigation, and further details are expected to emerge as city, county, and federal officials provide more information.