Los Angeles descended into chaos this weekend as violent protests erupted following a series of federal immigration raids.
The unrest escalated to the point where authorities called in the California National Guard, deploying thousands of troops to quell the disorder and protect federal officers conducting enforcement operations.
With tensions mounting, officials also warned that active-duty Marines remain on high alert should the violence continue to spiral, the New York Post reports.
The turmoil unfolded near a Home Depot in Paramount, California, where federal agents in riot gear clashed with demonstrators attempting to block immigration arrests.
Video footage circulating online showed protesters throwing rocks at Border Patrol vehicles, breaking windshields and injuring at least one federal officer.
Tear gas and flash-bang grenades were deployed as agents tried to disperse the crowds. In one particularly striking scene, a burning American flag was set aflame amid the chaos.
Federal prosecutors announced multiple arrests for obstructing law enforcement, with U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli reporting over a dozen individuals detained on Saturday alone.
Border Patrol Chief Michael W. Banks confirmed arrests for assaulting agents during the confrontations.
Despite these actions, rioters continued to impede federal operations, even standing in front of buses used to transport