Anti-ICE riot quashed by federal agents after militants block Portland immigration facility entrance

Portland Antifa militants and anti-ICE agitators involved in a riot were shut down by federal agents on Wednesday night, where the scene resembled something of a war zone at times.

Anti-ICE and Antifa militants were trying to block ICE vehicles and immigration authorities from leaving an ICE facility on Wednesday evening, Fox News reported. In response, federal agents deployed a number of non-lethal munitions, including tear gas and rubber bullets. Hundreds of anti-ICE agitators gathered around the Macadam Avenue building to block the entrance for hours. In addition to gathering in front of the entrance to the facility, the crowd brought in a dumpster to block vehicles from leaving.

The crowd had multiple warnings to disperse as the agitators refused to leave the premises before federal authorities dressed in riot gear fired the tear gas as well as the rubber bullets so that government vehicles could safely exit the ICE facility.

“This is the Federal Protective Service. The facility is closed and not open to the public. Stay out of the area of the driveway to allow for vehicular traffic. Remain on the sidewalk or across the street. Anyone, to include the press, trespassing on federal property is subject to arrest," police stated in an announcement prior to deploying tear gas as well as other non-lethal crowd control munitions.

Rioters launched smoke grenades and fireworks at the agents amid the incident. Some were taken into custody, but the total number of arrests was not immediately clear.

The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement, "Last night, Portland rioters violently targeted federal law enforcement— 250 rioters launched fireworks, shined lasers in officers’ eyes to temporarily blind them, and stormed an ICE field office. Ultimately, five individuals were arrested on various charges including assault on federal law enforcement. We won’t sit idly by and watch these cowards."

"Our officers are facing a 413% increase in assaults against them as they put their lives on the line to arrest murderers, rapists, and gang members. Secretary Noem’s message to the rioters is clear: you will not stop us or slow us down. ICE and our federal law enforcement partners will continue to enforce the law. And if you lay a hand on a law enforcement officer, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

The riot comes amid a number of other anti-ICE demonstrations throughout the country, many of which have devolved into riots and violence.