Saturday night in Stockton turned into a powder keg of tension as protesters faced off with ICE agents in a dramatic confrontation that had the community on edge.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility at 603 San Juan Avenue became ground zero for a heated demonstration after approximately 24 immigrants were reportedly detained during weekend check-ins - a highly unusual occurrence since the facility typically operates only Monday through Friday.

A Community Under Siege

Witnesses described a scene of raw emotion, with activists lining the facility’s fence, shouting passionate accusations about family separation and systemic injustice. One protester even went as far as throwing trash cans at vehicles attempting to leave the premises, highlighting the community’s frustration and desperation.

Tensions Escalate

The confrontation took a more intense turn when reports emerged of a protester being maced, with multiple activists rushing to help flush the victim’s eyes with water. Stockton Police monitored the situation but claimed no significant issues were reported.

Voices of Resistance

One activist’s raw emotion echoed through a bullhorn, challenging ICE agents with pointed questions about family separation: “How can you sit there and separate mothers from their f, ing kids?”

While some community members like Edward Villa viewed the protest as “one-sided,” the demonstration clearly represented a powerful statement of solidarity and resistance against what many see as unjust immigration enforcement practices.