Border Patrol Commander Bovino Tosses Gas Canister at Minneapolis Protesters
Protests in Minneapolis escalated yesterday as U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino engaged with demonstrators, culminating in a controversial use of a gas canister. A video recording by ICE investigator Ben Luhmann captured the tense moments when Bovino was seen among agents at the scene.
Incident Overview
As tensions mounted, Commander Bovino prepared to deploy gas. In the footage, he could be heard warning the crowd with phrases like, “Get back. Gas is coming. Second warning,” before ultimately throwing the canister into the throng of protesters.
Details of the Confrontation
The confrontation intensified when officers began detaining protesters at an intersection. Luhmann, alongside his brother Sam, documented the event. Their ages, 17 and 16, respectively, highlight their initiative in tracking ICE activities across the country.
- Commander: Gregory Bovino
- Location: Minneapolis
- Protesters: Engaged with law enforcement during a targeted operation
- Video Source: Ben Luhmann (ICE investigator)
Post-deployment, clouds of green and gray smoke enveloped the area, prompting protesters to evacuate. Reports from the Star Tribune indicated that the gas used was “pocket tactical green smoke,” produced by Defense Technology. This type of smoke is designed for use exclusively by trained personnel.
Justification and Background
Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, stated that the deployment of gas was in response to being repeatedly harassed by the crowd. According to McLaughlin, officers were merely trying to complete essential tasks, which included restroom breaks, amid high tension.
This incident follows a recent judicial decision that reversed a temporary ban on immigration enforcement officers from retaliating against protesters. The courts had previously criticized the actions of Bovino and other officers during similar operations, describing their conduct as “shocking” and lacking signs of improvement.
Ongoing protests and law enforcement engagements continue to spark debate, emphasizing the need for accountability and oversight in enforcement practices across the nation. For more insights on ICE activities, visit Filmogaz.com.
