Protests Escalate in Los Angeles with Clashes Between Police and Demonstrators; Chinese Communities Remain Calm but Fear Looting

In response to recent immigration raids, protests erupted across Los Angeles, with scenes of escalating conflict between protesters and police forces. On June 9, the National Guard was deployed to manage the situation. Riot control equipment including tear gas, flashbangs, and rubber bullets was used to disperse crowds, while demonstrators responded by hurling rocks and other objects.

The Chinese Consulate-General in Los Angeles released a public advisory, calling on Chinese citizens to heighten their safety awareness, avoid demonstrations and high-crime areas, and minimize unnecessary travel at night or when alone.

Speaking to reporters from the Xiaoxiang Morning Herald, Mr. Han, a local Chinese resident, described the Chinese communities as relatively calm, located far from the city center. However, he expressed concern about his downtown business and warehouse possibly being affected by the unrest. “Things are already getting violent in downtown — looting has begun, and we’ve heard gunshots. I told my staff to close the premises early and not come in tomorrow,” he said.

According to Mr. Han, chaos erupted near a local highway where several police cars were trapped and damaged by stone-throwing protestors. Officers took cover under a bridge to avoid the attacks.