Feds say 14 arrested during chaotic immigration sweep that sparked protests on NYC's Canal Street

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Federal agents conduct an immigration sweep on Canal Street in Chinatown as protestors gather, Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Jake Offenhartz)

NEW YORK – An immigration enforcement operation that sparked spontaneous protests on Manhattan's Canal Street led to the arrests of 14 people, federal authorities said Wednesday, including several demonstrators accused of assaulting or obstructing agents.

Droves of angry New Yorkers surrounded a group of federal agents Thursday afternoon after they began questioning and detaining street vendors on the busy commercial strip, known for its sidewalk bazaars and shops selling knock-off designer goods.

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