In a recent development, law enforcement authorities have apprehended a teenager who allegedly attacked pro-Palestinian demonstrators at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). The arrest comes three weeks after the chaotic clash between protesters and counter-protesters, which resulted in the site being cleared by the police.

The individual arrested, identified as 18-year-old Edan On, is believed to be the first counter-protester linked to the overnight unrest to be taken into custody. Images and videos widely circulated online showed a person wearing a white hoodie and a mask, striking protesters with a wooden pole, and Mr. On is reportedly the person in question. UCLA police records confirm his detainment on Thursday morning at a business premises in Beverly Hills, with Mr. On being held at a Los Angeles County jail.

According to the LA County Sheriff's Department, Mr. On is currently facing one felony charge of assault with a deadly weapon. While his mother initially acknowledged her son's presence at the protest and his involvement in the violence, she later retracted her statement, claiming that he denied being there.

Reports indicate that Mr. On has since been released on bond, pending trial, with his bail set at $30,000 (£24,000). Authorities continue to investigate the incident and are actively seeking to identify other individuals involved in the assaults.

In a statement released by the UCLA Office of Campus Safety, it was confirmed that detectives from the campus police force had assisted in the arrest, marking a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the April 30 clashes. The university expressed its commitment to hold accountable those who committed acts of violence on its campus, pledging to investigate all reported incidents thoroughly.

The clashes, which lasted for hours, drew heavy criticism directed towards the university's police force. Subsequently, more than 200 pro-Palestinian protesters who refused to vacate the encampment were arrested. Earlier this week, UCLA campus police chief was removed from his position due to criticism over his handling of the violence.

The incident at UCLA has shocked Americans, as it occurred shortly after the New York City police raided and cleared a Columbia University building that had been occupied by students. These incidents reflect the growing unrest and protest movements across universities in the US in response to the war in Gaza.

UCLA Chancellor Gene Block testified before Congress in Washington DC regarding the university's response to the protests. While he was addressing the committee, a second encampment was erected on campus, accompanied by acts of vandalism. However, no arrests were made as the protesters voluntarily dispersed when instructed to do so.

As the legal proceedings move forward, UCLA remains dedicated to upholding security and ensuring the safety of its community. The university's administration has reiterated its commitment to hold accountable all those responsible for acts of violence on campus, pledging to work diligently to identify and prosecute the remaining individuals involved in the disturbances.