Federal Agents Clash with New Yorkers Over Street Vendors
In the heart of Lower Manhattan, a tense scene unfolded as federal agents in masks targeted street vendors on Canal Street. The situation quickly escalated when locals joined in to protest the arrests. It's still unclear exactly how many vendors were taken into custody, but witnesses reported seeing at least four, with more likely.
The Department of Homeland Security stayed quiet when asked for comments. One vendor, who had been selling goods for over 15 years, was seen being handcuffed and taken away. He pleaded with the agents, asking if he could call his mother before being driven off.
Protesters Rally Against Arrests
The arrests sparked anger among New Yorkers. Lydia Leal, a Bronx resident, saw the arrests and joined the protests. She said the scene reminded her of her father, who had immigrated from Cuba for a better life.
"It's not right."
As the operation continued, protesters gathered, shouting at the agents to leave. The agents, outnumbered and cornered, pushed through the crowd to clear the area. One agent even pulled out a Taser, pointing it at the protesters.
Escalation and Military Presence
The scene was reminiscent of other cities where federal agents have cracked down on immigration, but it was a first for New York City. Protesters followed the agents as they moved towards 26 Federal Plaza, a federal law enforcement office. More agents joined, along with an armored vehicle and agents with assault rifles.
Local City Council member Christopher Marte witnessed the event. He said he hadn't seen so much military action in Lower Manhattan since after 9/11. Several protesters were dragged past police barricades into the federal building.
Context and Aftermath
The raid came just two days after a video was posted online, tagging ICE to check out the area. It also followed a year-long campaign by city law enforcement to crack down on unlicensed vendors, many of whom are new migrants from West Africa.
The city's restrictive cap on vending permits has left many vendors vulnerable. Mohamed Attia, from the nonprofit advocacy group Street Vendor Project, said the city's actions have made vendors skeptical and terrified to go to work.
As the agents entered 26 Federal Plaza, the NYPD's Strategic Response Group guarded the perimeter. Outside, a small crowd remained, chanting and demanding the release of those detained. Local elected officials gathered to denounce the raid, calling street vendors not a national security threat.