Story highlights At least 35 people arrested

Trump applauds officers' response

San Diego police said three arrests had been made

Dozens of police officers, clad in riot gear and clutching batons, separated the two groups

San Diego (CNN) Police clad in riot gear and wielding batons began dispersing a crowd of Donald Trump supporters and protesters here Friday night after the presumptive GOP nominee held a rally.

After issuing orders to the crowd of roughly 1,000 to disperse, police began forcefully and aggressively pushing protesters, checking them with their batons. At least 35 people were arrested, police said.

Even as there was no room to move, police officers continued to push protesters and reporters, with some toppling over in the fray. Police pepper-sprayed several protesters.

In a message to the San Diego Police Department, Trump applauded the officers' response to the protesters.

"Fantastic job on handling the thugs who tried to disrupt our very peaceful and well attended rally," Trump tweeted. "Greatly appreciated."

.@SanDiegoPD- Fantastic job on handling the thugs who tried to disrupt our very peaceful and well attended rally. Greatly appreciated! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 28, 2016

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