On Saturday, November 29, 2025, the NYPD made over a dozen arrests during a protest outside a parking garage in SoHo. The demonstration erupted as masked agents from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) gathered inside the facility, spurring a crowd of activists to demand an end to federal immigration raids.
NYPD Confronts Protesters
Federal agents had reportedly planned an immigration operation in the area. However, the raid was allegedly canceled when news spread among local protesters and street vendors. The situation quickly escalated as protesters gathered around 11 a.m., chanting slogans such as “ICE out of New York” and attempting to block garage exits with traffic cones and overturned trash cans.
Law Enforcement Response
The NYPD arrived shortly before noon in response to a 911 call about a “disorderly group.” Officers helped clear the protesters to facilitate the exit of federal vehicles from the garage. This confrontation lasted approximately two hours and involved the use of pepper spray against demonstrators.
- Number of Arrests: Over a dozen
- Duration of Confrontation: Roughly two hours
- Time of Incident: Started around 11 a.m.
City Councilmember Christopher Marte expressed concerns, stating that the NYPD seemed to be assisting ICE agents in conducting arrests. The NYPD’s statement indicated that officers tried to disperse the crowd but faced resistance, leading to the arrests of several individuals.
Federal Agents and Community Reaction
While the DHS did not disclose the specifics of the planned operation, they thanked the NYPD for their response. The agency underscored its commitment to enforcing the law and stated they would pursue those who violate it. Meanwhile, local activists condemned the actions as unnecessary and cruel.
Monica Klein, a spokesperson for incoming Mayor Zohran Mamdani, reiterated the need for humane treatment and adherence to sanctuary laws. She emphasized the mayor’s stance against ICE raids and the importance of protecting the rights of all New Yorkers.
Community Impact
The protest turned chaotic, as federal agents attempted to leave the garage amid a barrage of debris from protesters. This conflict not only disrupted the local community but also coincided with “Small Business Saturday,” a peak shopping day in New York City.
Witnesses reported confusion and tension, with some onlookers, including tourists, becoming involved. One protester highlighted the unity among people, stating, “We’re all one kind,” showcasing the emotional impact of federal immigration policies on the community.
The previous month, a significant ICE operation had resulted in multiple arrests of West African immigrants, marking one of the largest raids in the city. The increase in such actions, coupled with reports of aggressive tactics by federal agents, has raised alarms among local advocates and sparked continued protests.
