The mayor of Newark, Ras Baraka, has imposed a curfew around the Delaney Hall immigration detention centre following growing tensions and protests near the facility.
City officials said the curfew was introduced to maintain public order and ensure safety after demonstrations intensified around the detention center, where immigration detainees are being held.
According to local authorities, the restrictions are temporary and are aimed at preventing violence, clashes, or disruptions in the surrounding area during nighttime hours.
The detention center has recently become the focus of protests by activists and community groups criticizing U.S. immigration detention policies and conditions inside such facilities.
Supporters of the protests argue that detainees are being held in difficult conditions and are demanding reforms to the immigration system and detention practices.
Meanwhile, officials defending the curfew said the measure is necessary to protect residents, protesters, and law enforcement personnel while maintaining stability in the city.
The development comes amid broader national debates in the United States over immigration enforcement, detention centers, and border security policies.