UCLA Pro-Palestinian Camp Dismantled by Police: 209 Arrested and Violent Clash Occurs

On Thursday, the Los Angeles Police Department dismantled a pro-Palestinian camp set up at the University of California (UCLA) in protest against Israeli Government policies. The police arrested 209 people, including students and university staff, according to the Sheriff’s Office. Among those arrested, 135 were formally charged in the parking lot of the Los Angeles Central Court, while other detainees were transported by buses to the Metropolitan Detention Center of the Los Angeles Police Department.

The police assault began at dawn with several flares being launched on protesters, who responded by using fire extinguishers against officers. After a pitched battle and eviction of the camp, remnants and trash left behind included numerous graffiti by protesters on nearby buildings. Excavators were used to remove remains of the camp. According to Alejandro Rubio of California Highway Patrol, there was one police officer for each protester in the camp. While injuries have not been reported yet, Rubio stated that protesters threw fire extinguishers and water bottles at police officers during the violence.

UCLA had previously released a notice warning those still in the camp that they may be committing a crime and risked “disciplinary measures,” including expulsion from the university. The incidents began two days ago when UCLA declared camping illegal and worsened when pro-Israel protesters attacked activists on Tuesday night. It took hours for police intervention to stop violence at UCLA campus.