- Mayor Bass clashes with federal agents during a major MS-13 gang raid in LA’s MacArthur Park.
- Feds respond with one of the largest operations yet, deploying Border Patrol on horseback.
- Tensions rise between local and federal leaders over crime enforcement vs. immigration concerns.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass reportedly confronted federal agents during a major law enforcement operation targeting areas heavily influenced by the violent MS-13 gang.
The confrontation happened in MacArthur Park, a known hotspot for gang activity in the heart of Los Angeles. According to Fox News correspondent Bill Melugin, “Mayor Bass has demanded raids stop, Feds respond with one of the largest yet, including Border Patrol agents on horseback.”
While Mayor Bass has expressed concerns over federal immigration enforcement operations within city limits, federal authorities say the raid was aimed at curbing gang violence, not targeting law-abiding immigrants. The operation involved multiple agencies, including Border Patrol and Homeland Security, and was one of the most visible in recent years.
Officials say MS-13 has long used MacArthur Park as a stronghold, and coordinated operations like these are key to dismantling violent criminal networks. The presence of Border Patrol agents on horseback drew both support and criticism—some saw it as a necessary show of force, while others viewed it as escalatory.
The Biden administration has publicly supported “targeted enforcement,” while local leaders like Bass continue to advocate for more community-focused approaches.
This latest standoff highlights the growing tension between local and federal authorities when it comes to crime and immigration. While both sides claim to be working for public safety, the method—and message—behind these efforts remain sharply divided.
Still, one thing is clear: MS-13’s grip on communities like MacArthur Park continues to raise concern across the political spectrum.