New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has requested access to the Delaney Hall Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Newark amid ongoing protests and a hunger strike by detainees.

Protesters gathered outside the facility on Monday, where they say a hunger strike is currently underway. During the demonstration, protesters alleged that ICE agents used pepper spray and batons against them, though officials have not confirmed these claims.

The protesters attempted to prevent ICE from transferring Martin Soto, who reportedly announced the hunger strike, according to demonstrators. Despite their efforts, ICE officials said they successfully moved Soto to the Elizabeth contract detention facility.

The governor's request for facility access comes as tensions escalate around the detention center. The specific reasons for Sherrill's request and the scope of access she is seeking were not immediately detailed.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about conditions at immigration detention facilities and the treatment of detainees. Both the hunger strike and the protests reflect broader tensions surrounding immigration enforcement policies and detention practices.