Arrest of Nigerian in US by ICE agents sparks protests; protesters block traffic, damage property

A protest outside a Brooklyn hospital snowballed into chaos on Saturday night after ICE agents arrested a Nigerian national Chidozie Wilson Okeke who was accused of ‘weaponizing’ his vehicle in order to strike federal agents.

Okeke was dragged outside the Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Bushwick in a conflict that suddenly exploded into angry scenes after hours of escalating tension, reports the UK Daily Mailonline.

The flashpoint came just as Okeke had been brought to the facility for a medical evaluation.

Word quickly spread prompting clashes with demonstrators and multiple arrests as he was taken inside by agents.

Police said the number of protesters swelled and grew disorderly and violent as they blocked traffic, damaged property and refused orders to disperse.

Video footage shows the moment federal agents emerged with Okeke in the early hours of Sunday.

Handcuffed, he was pulled down a short set of steps toward an ambulance bay as officers formed a barrier against shouting protesters. At one point, he appeared to fall to the ground before agents lifted him and forced him into a waiting vehicle.

According to police, protesters attempted to block the ambulance bay and prevent the vehicle from leaving, prompting further intervention.

Eight people were arrested during the confrontation, facing charges including resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration and criminal mischief. Another individual was issued a summons.

Authorities said several ICE vehicles were damaged and officers suffered minor injuries during the unrest.

The Department of Homeland Security said Okeke had overstayed a tourist visa and had prior arrests for assault and criminal drug possession.

According to a DHS spokesperson, the situation had already been volatile before the hospital standoff even began.

‘During his arrest, Okeke refused to comply with officers’ lawful commands to exit the vehicle and weaponized his vehicle to attempt to hit ICE officers,’ the spokesperson said.

‘Okeke became physically combative attempting to punch and elbow ICE officers. Our officers followed their training and used the minimum amount of force necessary to make the arrest.’

After the confrontation, Okeke requested medical attention, prompting agents to transport him to the hospital.

By the time he arrived, a crowd had already begun to gather.

Police said protesters blocked traffic and obstructed the ambulance bay outside Wyckoff Heights Medical Center, preventing vehicles from moving freely as tensions escalated

Democratic New York State Senator Julia Salazar said on social media that ICE appears to have recently increased its presence in the Bushwick area, raising concerns among local residents

Democratic New York State Senator Julia Salazar said on social media that ICE appears to have recently increased its presence in the Bushwick area, raising concerns among local residents.

– Mailonline