Washington: US President Donald Trump has directed immigration agents to arrest protesters who allegedly attacked Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers with rocks and bricks, referring to the assailants as 'SLIMEBALLS'. The incident reportedly took place while ICE officers were driving in their official vehicles.
According to Anadolu Agency, Trump expressed his frustration on Truth Social, stating that he witnessed the violent actions of the protesters from Texas. He described the situation as causing 'tremendous damage' to government property and criticized the perceived lack of respect for law enforcement officers.
The President has instructed the Department of Homeland Security, along with Kristi Noem and border czar Tom Homan, to take decisive action. ICE, Homeland Security, and other law enforcement officers have been ordered to halt their vehicles and arrest any individuals attacking them with rocks or bricks, using any necessary means.
Furthermore, Trump has granted ICE officers the authority to defend themselves if assaulted, making it clear that he wishes to prevent future attacks on law enforcement vehicles. "AUTHORIZATION IMMEDIATELY GRANTED FOR ARREST AND INCARCERATION," Trump emphasized.
The incident coincided with Trump's visit to Texas, where he and First Lady Melania Trump toured areas affected by recent floods. During their visit, they participated in a roundtable discussion with first responders and conducted an aerial survey of the flood-stricken regions.
The clash with protesters occurred on Thursday during a federal immigration enforcement operation at Glass House Farms in Camarillo, California. According to ABC 7, the confrontation escalated when protesters confronted the federal agents, who responded with smoke canisters and flashbangs. Tear gas was deployed, and some protesters retaliated by hurling rocks at the agents.