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Federal agents, demonstrators clash at border wall protest

Posted at 9:21 PM, Sep 30, 2020
and last updated 2020-10-01 01:37:43-04

QUITOBAQUITO SPRINGS, Ariz. — The day began with a release from a group calling themselves allies of the Tohono O'odham nation and other tribes in southern Arizona.

In the release: a plan to demonstrate and hold a ceremony on Native lands where there also happens to be construction of a border wall.

It all happened near Quitobaquito Springs in far southwestern Arizona.

Demonstrators said in their release: "The land is sacred to the Tohono O'odham Nation and regularly used to hold ceremonies and pay homage to ancestors."

Tense moments were recorded and posted to social media accounts earlier today showing federal agents in physical confrontation with demonstrators.

While the group denied KGUN9's requests for comments, a spokesperson said they plan to issue a release on Thursday.

A statement was provided to KGUN9 by the National Park Service.

In part, the Park Service told KGUN9 no arrests were made, Customs and Border Patrol agents were brought in to help with enforcement of the closed area and the Park Service supports the groups first amendment right to protest however this part of the park was closed because of ongoing construction.

The park service added it will work with the Tohono O'odham Nation to ensure continued access for tribal use.

Click here for a list of updated closures from the National Park Service.