Police Clear Pro-Palestinian Encampment on UCLA Campus
Law enforcement officers dispersed a pro-Palestinian encampment on the UCLA campus on Thursday morning, leading to the arrests of protesters who defied orders to leave.
A dispersal order was issued Wednesday evening, and by 3:30 a.m. Thursday, officers from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) in riot gear began dismantling the encampment. They tore down plywood, metal barriers, and other fortifications erected by protesters.
More than 200 people were arrested and booked, according to the sheriff’s department. They were detained using zip ties, although it remains unclear how many were UCLA students.
Most individuals were cited for unlawful assembly and released. However, those involved in violent acts may face additional charges, such as assault with a deadly weapon, according to Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón.
The law enforcement action followed hours of warnings over loudspeakers for people to disperse. Hundreds had gathered both inside and outside the barricaded tent encampment.
As police helicopters hovered overhead, the sound of flash-bangs echoed, disorienting the crowd. CHP officers, equipped with face shields and batons, confronted demonstrators who wore helmets and chanted for justice.
Officers systematically dismantled the barricades and began apprehending protesters, while a core group formed a line and linked arms in defiance.
Although most were taken into custody peacefully, there were moments of tension. LAPD officers faced off with protesters earlier in the morning, prompting a brief confrontation before police retreated.
Ultimately, the encampment was cleared, leaving behind tents and equipment. The situation remained tense throughout the night, but violence between the two sides was limited.
