LA protests: Riot gear distributed by masked group sparks questions

FOX 11 Los Angeles ^ | June 9, 2025 | Austin Williams

[Morgana]

LOS ANGELES - The mood in downtown Los Angeles shifted from tense to surreal Monday evening as FOX 11 cameras captured a masked group handing out riot shields and gas masks just steps from federal buildings—despite official claims that protests remained largely peaceful.

Reporters on the ground described chaotic scenes: protesters doing burnouts, tagging sidewalks, and climbing light poles as riot gear was passed around in full view. No local police were visible at the time, even as National Guard troops stood guard outside nearby federal buildings.

The masks being distributed were branded "bionic shield," and the boxes appeared to be left behind in the open. The woman distributing them wasn’t masked herself—but her intent, or affiliation, remains unknown. Who handed out the protest gear — and why?

What we know:

Witnesses and journalists observed the scene unfold in real time, offering a clearer—but still incomplete—picture of how the gear was distributed and what role it played in the evening’s escalation.

* FOX 11 reporters witnessed masked individuals handing out tactical gear to protest attendees.

* No arrests were made at the scene, despite visible acts of vandalism and street interference.

* The incident occurred near federal buildings as National Guard troops were stationed nearby.

* Protesters also reported graffitiing, burning rubber, and preparing for clashes with police.

[frank ballenger]

True.

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((English: For English, press 4.))