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New York state AG has launched a recent reporting form asking citizens to submit images and footage of ICE operations across the state. This move comes just a shortly after a major ICE raid rattled Manhattan's Chinatown, sparking mass demonstrations.

US Citizens Detained During ICE Operation

A lawmaker announced during a Wednesday press conference that four US citizens were arrested and held for "nearly 24 hours" after the enforcement action. Rallies broke out in the city on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Every New Yorker is entitled to exist without intimidation," the attorney general declared in a statement.

"Anyone who observed and documented federal operations recently, I encourage you to share that footage with the authorities. We are dedicated to examining these accounts and investigating any wrongdoings."

Portal Features

The platform provides options to upload visual evidence of the raid, as well as a section to specify geographic details. When submitting, submitters must check a option that states that "authorities may use any materials, images, or footage in a official report, including in a lawsuit or public report."

Details of the ICE Action

The Chinatown raid, which observers say featured dozens of federal agents, occurred in a popular area of the city where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and other goods are regularly available in large quantities – frequently to visitors.

Videos of Tuesday's raid reveal numerous masked and armed personnel securing and holding a individual, and forcing aside onlookers. Masses of residents followed the agents down the sidewalks. An armored truck was noticed moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

At a news conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, the congressman, a lawmaker, announced that four US citizens were arrested by immigration for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no conditions where four American citizens should be arrested for no reason." He said the persons were released on Wednesday with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not to take criminals off the street," Goldman said. "This constitutes a armed campaign to create conflict. It is simply a justification to generate turmoil for this administration to utilize the troops to stop conflict that they have created."

Widespread Condemnation

Fury over the federal action rapidly grew – all three political contenders denounced the operation, along with NY's governor.

"Yet again, the federal government opts for authoritarian theatrics that create fear, not safety. It must stop," a political candidate declared.

New York City advocacy organizations voiced concern as well.

"Federal officers raided Chinatown in NYC with military-style vehicles, covered personnel and protective equipment to go after small merchants attempting to earn income. This raid had no relation to public safety and everything to do with terrorizing immigrant families and areas," stated the president of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines bans the holding of citizens and the bureau has said it refrains from apprehend citizens. Nevertheless, external research has discovered that over 170 American nationals have been taken illegally by ICE during the period of the present government.

Recent Pattern

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in NY and nationwide this year.

A mid-October raid in central NYC was the first known raid on an refuge facility of the current administration. Demonstrations against federal operations are commonplace along with claims of force and abusive practices.

Latest, a letter provided by advocacy organizations claimed healthcare failures of expectant mothers in government custody.