Tensions escalate at UCLA as pro-Palestinian encampment leads to multiple arrests amid protests.
On Monday night, UCLA police arrested 25 pro-Palestinian protesters after an unauthorized encampment on campus was deemed illegal. This marks the second major crackdown within a month, as protests supporting the Palestinian cause have intensified on college campuses across the United States, from New York to California.
UCLA authorities reported that roughly 150 protesters remained on site, with accusations of vandalism and disruptions to final exams, which are ongoing. Mary Osako, UCLA’s vice chancellor for strategic communications, stated that Campus Safety teams were monitoring the situation to ensure safety for students and staff.
Police responded when approximately 100 people erected tents and barricades at the top of UCLA’s Janss Steps in the late afternoon, establishing what they termed an “illegal encampment.” Authorities issued a dispersal order, warning that further presence would violate Section 409 of the California Criminal Code, which could lead to fines or jail time.
The protesters relocated to another area on campus, setting up additional barriers and furniture, before gathering outside Dodd Hall. This location had previously witnessed confrontations between police and activists during similar protests in April.
In one instance, video footage from the UCLA Faculty Association showed a female protester being detained by officers in riot gear as she shouted, “No racist police!” The association has since urged UCLA to avoid using forceful police tactics on students and staff members.
Arrests were made around 8 p.m., shortly after protesters read aloud the names of Palestinians reportedly killed in recent conflicts in Gaza. Those arrested now face charges related to disrupting campus operations, punishable by up to six months in jail and a temporary campus ban.
Video footage later released by the Daily Bruin captured protesters facing off against campus and city police, along with California Highway Patrol officers. Cries of “There’s a genocide going on, and you guys are arresting and brutalizing students!” were heard from the crowd, underscoring the heightened tensions on campus.
