Curfew imposed in downtown Los Angeles amid ongoing protests

Authorities in Los Angeles have imposed a nightly curfew in the downtown area following a wave of protests and unrest related to immigration enforcement actions. The curfew, effective from June 10, restricts movement between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. in a zone bounded by Interstate 5, Interstate 110, and Interstate 10, covering areas such as Little Tokyo, Skid Row, the Fashion District, and parts of Chinatown and South Park.

The curfew was introduced after several nights of escalating demonstrations, some of which resulted in vandalism, looting, and confrontations with police. Mayor Karen Bass signed an emergency declaration to support enforcement measures. According to LAPD, over 100 individuals were arrested on the first night of the curfew, with increased patrols deployed throughout the restricted zone.

President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of more than 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 U.S. Marines to Los Angeles in response to the situation. These federal forces have been stationed near key government buildings but have not directly engaged in law enforcement actions. California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the federal deployment and stated that his administration is seeking legal avenues to challenge what he described as an overreach.

Exemptions to the curfew include local residents, credentialed workers, accredited journalists, homeless individuals, and emergency service personnel. The city has indicated the curfew may remain in place for several more nights depending on the evolving security situation.

The protests began on June 6 as demonstrations against immigration raids conducted by federal authorities. Officials report that at least 23 businesses have been affected by looting, and several police officers have sustained injuries in recent days.

The Los Angeles Police Department continues to enforce the restrictions, with both mounted and foot patrols active in the designated area. Updates on the curfew’s duration are expected from city officials as conditions develop.