The ICE Chinatown raid in New York City erupted into chaos Friday as protesters clashed with federal agents targeting street vendors accused of selling counterfeit goods. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the enforcement action on Canal Street was “targeted” and “intelligence-driven,” aimed at criminal activity linked to the counterfeit trade.
“During this law enforcement operation, rioters who were shouting obscenities became violent and obstructed law enforcement duties, including blocking vehicles and assaulting law enforcement,” said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Already, one rioter has been arrested for assault on a federal officer.”
Local officials, however, quickly distanced themselves from the raid. Mayor Eric Adams’ press secretary, Kayla Mamelak Altus, said the city “never cooperates with federal law enforcement on civil deportation matters” and “had no involvement in this matter.” She added that the mayor believes “undocumented New Yorkers trying to pursue the American Dream should not be the target of law enforcement.”
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams criticized the operation, claiming agents were “armed and in tactical gear for vendors” and accused them of “targeting… Black vendors on Canal Street.” Socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani blasted the raid as “aggressive and reckless,” while City Comptroller Brad Lander said, “Street vendors are not a national security threat.”
DHS officials maintain the raid was lawful and focused on criminal activity, not immigration status. “Any illegal activity should be addressed,” one federal source said, emphasizing that those who obstructed officers would face charges.
