Two people were arrested on Tuesday during protests outside a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention centre in the state of New Jersey, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said.
"Tonight, ICE law enforcement officers were assaulted by anti-ICE rioters who sprayed law enforcement with an unknown chemical substance," Mullin said in a post on social media platform X. "Two individuals were arrested for assaulting, resisting, and impeding federal officers."
"Assaulting and obstructing ICE law enforcement is a crime and felony. Anyone who assaults law enforcement will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," Mullin added.
Earlier, ICE, which is overseen by Mullin's department, defended conditions at the facility in Newark after days of protests.
The agency said all detainees received regular meals and had access to water, clothing, bedding, showers, hygiene products and medical care. Detainees were also able to communicate with family members and lawyers, it said.
Dozens of protesters have gathered for days outside the facility near New York City, where around 300 people are currently being held. Demonstrators accuse ICE of failing to provide adequate food and medical care to detainees.
Protesters also alleged that officers used pepper spray and batons during clashes outside the centre.
ICE has faced mounting criticism in recent months over its hardline immigration enforcement tactics and fatal shootings involving federal agents. Tensions escalated particularly in Minneapolis, where protests erupted following deadly incidents involving ICE officers.
