Several protesters were arrested in New York City after blocking streets and exits in an apparent attempt to prevent federal agents from carrying out an immigration raid, according to police and video footage from the scene.
The incident occurred shortly before noon Saturday in the area of Center Street and Howard Street in lower Manhattan, the New York City Police Department said. Officers responded to a call for a disorderly group and found several people “blocking the street and exits in different locations.”
Some were seen throwing debris, police said.
Protesters were ordered several times to disperse, but police said several people were detained after they refused to comply.
Video from the scene showed dozens of people surrounding a parking lot. with National Security vehicles inside. A group of officers were seen blocking the entrance and placing metal fences to maintain the perimeter. Some officers were uniformed NYPD officers and others wore masks and vests that said “Federal Police Officer.” Several protesters and officers were seen pushing each other and against metal fences.
Some protesters in the parking lot held signs that read “Stop Deportations” and “ICE Out of New York.”
A speaker in the background said, “This is the New York City Police Department. You are unlawfully on the roadway and obstructing vehicle traffic. You are ordered to leave the roadway and use the available sidewalk. If you do so voluntarily, you will not be charged.”
Other images showed police officers on foot in front of a long line of police vehicles, trying to clear the street of dozens of people. Sirens blared in the background as protesters attempted to step in front of vehicles to slow them down. Some people were seen kicking trash cans and recycling bins into the path of officers and police vans. Officers were seen stopping several people who refused to get off the road.
NBC News did not immediately receive a response from the Department of Homeland Security or Immigration and Customs Enforcement seeking comment.
Last month, federal immigration agents conducted a raid in the same area, targeting street vendors known for selling imitation jewelry, watches and handbags on Canal Street.
