Dozens Arrested as NYPD Dramatically Storms Columbia Campus to Disperse Anti-Israel Mob

The New York Police Department (NYPD) swiftly and decisively intervened on Columbia University’s campus in response to escalating tensions caused by a pro-terror mob’s illegal occupation of an academic building and an anti-Israel encampment.

Police use a particular vehicle to enter Hamilton Hall Tuesday night.REUTERS

Protesters were taken away on an NYPD bus Tuesday.James Keivom

The influx of law enforcement personnel in Morningside Heights significantly intervened in ongoing unrest that had plagued the prestigious university in recent weeks.

NYPD’s operation to reclaim Hamilton Hall, a symbol of academic excellence, from rogue rioters who had barricaded themselves inside was a historic event.

NYPD officers in riot gear break into a building at Columbia University.AFP via Getty Images

Police use a particular vehicle to enter Hamilton Hall.REUTERS

Police used a particular vehicle to enter Hamilton Hall, which protesters occupied.REUTERS

However, their attempts to thwart law enforcement’s entry were met with resolute action as Emergency Service Unit officers, equipped with zip-tie handcuffs and supported by a Mobile Adjustable Ramp System vehicle, gained access through a second-floor window.

Amidst the chaos, protesters continued to vocalize anti-Israel sentiments, underscoring the charged atmosphere surrounding the campus. The NYPD’s presence extended beyond Hamilton Hall, as officers confronted additional demonstrators outside off-campus housing, met with vehement opposition.

Members of the New York Police Department detain protestors who did not leave the encampment. James Keivom

Shortly before entering the Morningside Heights campus at 9:13 p.m., about 100 cops from the NYPD’s Emergency Service Unit packed into buses. They headed to Columbia in preparation for the university’s call for help. Peter Gerber

Columbia University had to involve law enforcement after their internal attempts to defuse the situation failed. This required a swift response from the NYPD. The university’s administration expressed regret over the need for police intervention, citing safety concerns and the escalation of protests.

In a coordinated effort, the NYPD also dismantled an anti-Israel encampment on the campus’ South Lawn, clearing the area of protesters and their belongings. Despite heightened tensions and a shelter-in-place advisory issued by the university, law enforcement restored order to the campus successfully.

The arrests made during the operation totalled approximately 100, with charges ranging from burglary and criminal mischief to trespassing and disorderly conduct. The NYPD’s decisive action underscored its commitment to upholding law and order, ensuring the safety of the university community.

NYPD officers arrive in riot gear Tuesday night.AFP via Getty Images

Student protestors are arrested by police and removed from the campus of Columbia University. Getty Images NYPD officers arrest students as they evict a building that pro-Palestinian student protesters had barricaded.AFP via Getty Images

NYPD officers transport arrested students in a bus.AFP via Getty Images

While the immediate threat has been neutralized, the NYPD will maintain a presence on Columbia’s campus until the May 15 commencement, signalling a continued vigilance against potential disruptions. The university and law enforcement agencies remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding campus life and upholding the rule of law amidst ongoing challenges.

The Ivy League institution’s Chapter of the American Association of University Professors issued a scathing statement, accusing Columbia’s administration of ignoring faculty offers to defuse the situation. They held university leadership responsible for the escalation and voiced concerns over potential injuries during police action.

NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry lauded the operation, stating it “went very well.” Despite vocal opposition from spectators and students, law enforcement remained focused on restoring order and ensuring the safety of all individuals involved.

Members of the New York Police Department detain protesters Tuesday night. James Keivom

Protestors link arms as other police officers enter the campus of Columbia University on Tuesday night.REUTERS

The NYPD’s mobilization to storm the campus had been anticipated, with officers from the Emergency Service Unit and other units prepared to respond to the university’s call for assistance. The protesters’ actions and concerns about further disruptions prompted the decision to involve law enforcement.

The university’s administration, faced with a rapidly escalating situation, issued a shelter-in-place advisory for students over “heightened activity” on the Morningside campus. The advisory warned of disciplinary action for those who did not comply with the directive.

Columbia University expressed regret over the need to rely on police intervention but emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety and security of the campus community. The decision to involve law enforcement was made in response to the protesters’ actions and refusal to abide by university rules and regulations.

Despite the disruption caused by the protests, the university remains committed to maintaining an environment conducive to learning and academic excellence. Collaboration between the university and law enforcement agencies will continue to ensure the safety and well-being of all campus community members.

A NYPD officer arrests a protester Tuesday evening. Getty Images

Cops loading the protesters onto the bus on Tuesday night. Getty Images

As of 8 p.m., the police were only maintaining the perimeter.

Twenty minutes later, Columbia University issued a shelter-in-place for students over “heightened activity” at the Morningside campus — and warned that those who do not abide will be hit with “disciplinary action.”

The university’s Chapter of the American Association of University Professors issued a scathing statement once the officers began mobilizing, accusing Columbia’s administration of ignoring the faculty’s offers to “defuse the situation.”

Student protestors were arrested by police and removed from the campus of Columbia University on April 30, 2024, in New York City.

In the aftermath of the NYPD’s intervention, Columbia University faces the daunting task of addressing the aftermath of the protests and restoring a sense of normalcy to campus life.

The administration will likely review its security protocols and response mechanisms to prevent future incidents.
Moreover, the events at Columbia University have reignited debates about balancing academic freedom and public safety on college campuses.

Onlookers watch the NYPD clear out the Columbia protesters. James Keivom

The protesters stormed into Hamilton Hall in the middle of the night.NYPD

As institutions grapple with complex societal issues, they must navigate the delicate balance between respecting individuals’ right to protest and ensuring the safety and security of all community members. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges universities face in maintaining order while upholding free speech and expression principles.