Daijiworld Media Network- Los Angeles

Los Angeles, Jun 15: What began as a festive and peaceful protest filled with balloons, bubbles, and music in downtown Los Angeles spiraled into chaos on Saturday, as police forces moved in with tear gas and flash-bang grenades hours before curfew.

Part of a nationwide “No Kings” protest against US President Donald Trump and his immigration policies, the LA demonstration saw thousands gather for a day of resistance. The protest – the largest in over a week of mounting unrest – began with morning marches and Indigenous dances near City Hall, evolving into a vibrant street gathering filled with families, dogs, food vendors, and creative signs.

One inflatable balloon, caricaturing Trump as a diaper-wearing baby, floated above the crowd, while chants of “Impeach Trump!” and “Shame!” echoed through the streets. Protesters waved US flags – some held upside down in a symbol of distress – as well as the flags of Mexico, El Salvador, Palestine, and the LGBTQ+ Pride movement.

Despite the peaceful mood, tensions escalated unexpectedly in the afternoon when law enforcement suddenly ordered crowds to disperse. Mounted police pushed back demonstrators, while officers deployed tear gas and flash-bangs well before the 8:00 pm curfew.

According to a police spokesperson speaking to KTLA, a small group of agitators allegedly threw rocks, bottles, and fireworks at officers, prompting the forceful response. "We have been patient all day," she said, warning that arrests would follow if the crowd failed to disperse.

The violent turn came days after President Trump ordered the deployment of 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines in response to protests – a rare move met with strong opposition from local authorities. Notably, the military forces did not appear to be involved in Saturday’s confrontations.

Throughout the day, protest signs blended humour and outrage: “No faux-king Trump,” “America, you in danger girl,” and “ICE belongs in my matcha, not the streets.” Others directly targeted Trump’s allies, including a photo of top immigration advisor Stephen Miller labeled “Santa Monica Fascist.”

Protester Jennifer Franks, cradling her infant son near City Hall, voiced the sentiments of many: “This isn’t a war zone... I want my child to grow up in a nation where common sense pervades.”

What started as a colourful day of dissent ended in smoke and sirens – a stark reminder of the tensions that continue to grip parts of America.