Federal agents carried out a joint Immigration and Customs Enforcement crackdown in New York City’s Chinatown neighborhood on Tuesday, according to a law enforcement official.
A large law enforcement presence was seen on Canal Street, a prominent hub for shopping in Lower Manhattan.
Federal agents are seen in New York City’s Chinatown neighborhood, Oct. 21, 2025.
WABC
ABC’s New York station WABC reported that vendors packed up their tables and attempted to flee the area, which is known for merchants selling designer knockoffs.
ICE and federal partners from multiple agencies “conducted a targeted, intelligence-driven enforcement operation” that was “focused on criminal activity relating to selling counterfeit goods,” Assistant Department of Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement.
McLaughlin said details on those arrested will be released once available.
Following the ICE operation, protesters were seen gathering in the area. McLaughlin said one “rioter” was arrested for assault on a federal officer.
“During this law enforcement operation, rioters who were shouting obscenities, became violent and obstructed law enforcement duties, including blocking vehicles and assaulting law enforcement,” she said.
In response to protests, senior administration officials from City Hall went to the scene to monitor the ongoing situation.
“We have learned about the federal law enforcement action on Canal Street in Manhattan this afternoon and are gathering more details. We never cooperate with federal law enforcement on civil deportation matters, in accordance with local laws, and have no involvement in this matter,” a spokesperson for City Hall said in a statement to ABC News.
“Mayor Adams has been clear that undocumented New Yorkers trying to pursue the American Dream should not be the target of law enforcement, and resources should instead be focused on violent criminals,” the statement added.
Federal agents are seen in New York City’s Chinatown neighborhood, Oct. 21, 2025.
WABC
A source familiar with the situation told ABC News, if circumstances escalate and an individual assaults or interferes with a legal law enforcement action, Mayor Eric Adams has instructed the New York City Police Department to intervene.
Earlier on Tuesday, the NYPD said on X that it had “no involvement in the federal operation that took place on Canal Street this afternoon.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
