Police break up pro-Palestinian encampment and make dozens of arrests

• Dozens of arrests at UCLA after protests.
• Police break up encampment on campus.
• Tensions escalate across the country.

The Los Angeles Police took drastic measures by storming the pro-Palestinian encampment on the campus of UCLA.

This triggered dozens of arrests during the early hours of Thursday, May 2.

This forceful response followed days of tension and confrontations that had intensified in recent hours between opposing groups.

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Tensions and intense confrontations at UCLA

The scene at UCLA was tense as police forces removed barricades and began dismantling the pro-Palestinian encampment.

They were challenged by hundreds of protesters who refused to comply with orders to disperse, according to The Associated Press.

Additionally, the confrontation was said to have escalated after counterprotesters attacked the encampment.

The police raid took place in the early morning hours, they gave several warnings through loudspeakers, urging protesters to leave or face arrest.

Dozens of arrests at UCLA

The area was filled with police helicopters hovering overhead and the sound of stun grenades, designed to disorient the crowd.

Police advanced as the protesters responded with defiant chants, according to EFE.

A meticulous operation was carried out by the police, dismantling makeshift barricades and clearing a path between tents and structures that had been erected as part of the encampment.

The protesters defended themselves with umbrellas, prepared for possible more aggressive measures by the authorities.

Police stormed the encampment

According to CNN, the police had previously attempted to enter encampment without success.

But on this occasion, special units participated in the operation, equipped with riot gear and prepared to make arrests.

The confrontation culminated in the arrest of numerous protesters, some of whom were seen kneeling with their hands tied behind their backs.

Those arrested were transported on buses lined up near the university campus.

Classes have been canceled

The incidents at UCLA led to the university canceling classes.

A statement was issued informing students of the situation and the continued police presence on campus and near the encampment.

This situation mirrors protests taking place at campuses across the country.

There were also confrontations at Columbia University in New York.