Predator drones are monitoring anti-ICE protests [View all]

Source: Salon

The federal use of military drones at the Los Angeles anti-ICE protests in June has drawn strong criticism from civil liberties groups and politicians alike, with critics calling the practice “unconstitutional” and “dangerous.”

Typically used to surveil the U.S.-Mexico border, MQ-9 Predator drones are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) that operate at 20,000 feet and can relay real-time information to agencies like Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Last June, the drones were confirmed by amateur flight trackers to be in operation during the anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles.

While the CPB said the drones were to “support” federal agents and “provide situational awareness,” critics say the use of military-grade drones has a more sinister purpose.

In July, Rep. Jimmy Gomez, D-Calif., introduced a bill to restrict drones like the MQ-9 from being deployed by the government during protests nationally.

Read more: https://www.salon.com/2025/09/22/predator-drones-are-monitoring-anti-ice-protests/