Newark, New Jersey – The demonstrators clashed with federal gunmen Immigration Officers outside a detention center in New Jersey where the defenders are located Showed for several days While he confirmed that the detainees are on a hunger strike due to poor living conditions.
Groups of demonstrators Many of them wear gas masks Other face coverings, and arms tied in a human chain in front of him Delaney Hall In Newark on Wednesday evening, videos and photos posted on social media emerged.
Some used trash cans, old mattresses, umbrellas and other materials as makeshift shields and barricades as they confronted U.S. Immigration Enforcement officers. Others attempted to prevent people and vehicles from entering and exiting the building or threw orange traffic cones and other objects in the direction of ICE officers lined up at the entry gate.
The group chanted: “You will be hanged!” “Every cop, every detainee, shoot you in the head,” and other taunts at the officers, many of whom were wearing helmets and tactical vests.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers used pepper spray to try to disperse protesters, according to videos posted on social media. Some used batons to hit protesters and push them back while officers tried to clear the way for vehicles.
At least one truck driver got out of his vehicle to vent his frustration when some protesters tried to block vehicles traveling on the road in front of the detention center. Detainees inside can sometimes be seen waving to protesters from the windows of Delaney Hall.
The US Department of Homeland Security, which oversees Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said about six protesters were arrested on charges of assaulting law enforcement officers.
“Assaulting law enforcement authorities and obstructing their implementation is a crime and a felony,” the agency said in a statement. “Anyone who assaults law enforcement will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Earlier in the day, Democratic members of Congress from New York City said He toured the facility Within the framework of the monitoring visit. A private prison company runs the detention center, which is located along an industrial park in Newark Bay.
Reps. Jerry Nadler, Daniel Goldman and Adriano Espaillat, who all represent Manhattan, described harsh conditions where detainees are fed small portions of often spoiled food and their diverse medical needs are ignored.
DHS spokespeople denied any hunger strikes, mistreatment, or poor conditions inside the center and dismissed opponents’ criticisms as political positions.