Tensions escalated Tuesday night outside the ICE facility in South Portland as federal officers clashed with protesters, deploying pepper balls, arresting at least four individuals, and patrolling nearby streets. According to KATU-TV, at least one of the arrested individuals was later released, though authorities did not immediately disclose any charges.

The confrontation came after President Donald Trump authorized the deployment of 200 Oregon National Guard troops over the weekend to protect federal buildings, including the ICE facility. The move coincided with a Democrat-led government shutdown and drew criticism from Oregon state and local officials, who argued that federal intervention was unnecessary and that local law enforcement could manage the protests.

During the standoff, dozens of federal agents aggressively confronted protesters. One person was tackled to the ground, and agents fired pepper balls before retreating into the building. In a separate clash, Border Patrol officers cleared the driveway to allow a vehicle to pass, forcibly removing demonstrators and detaining two individuals.

Another incident involved a man standing in the facility’s driveway who refused to move despite protesters urging him to leave. Protesters later clarified that the man was not affiliated with their group. “We just don’t want people seeing that clip and thinking that’s us,” said a protester identified only as Ritto, emphasizing the group’s focus on safety.

Protests at the ICE facility have been ongoing since June, intensifying after Trump’s National Guard deployment. Activists fear the increased federal presence will escalate tensions further, as seen in previous crackdowns in cities like Memphis and Washington, D.C.