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New York state AG has introduced a fresh digital platform asking residents to submit photos and videos of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This action follows a shortly after a major immigration operation rattled NYC's Chinatown, sparking mass protests.

American Citizens Detained During Enforcement Action

A US congressman disclosed during a Wednesday press conference that four US citizens were detained and held for "almost a full day" after the previous day's operation. Protests occurred in the city on consecutive evenings.

"Every New Yorker deserves to live without fear," the attorney general declared in a statement.

"For those who saw and captured immigration enforcement during the raid, I encourage you to share that evidence with us. We are committed to assessing these submissions and evaluating any wrongdoings."

Portal Features

The form provides spaces to upload photos and videos of the operation, plus a section to indicate geographic details. Prior to sending, individuals must mark a box that states that "authorities could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a official report, including in a lawsuit or government document."

Information about the ICE Action

The Manhattan operation, which observers say included over fifty ICE personnel, happened in a famous area of NYC where fake purses, items, goods and other goods are sold daily en masse – frequently to tourists.

Footage of the operation show several hooded and equipped federal agents restraining and arresting a man, and forcing aside witnesses. Crowds of New Yorkers followed the personnel through the streets. An armored military vehicle was also seen moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

At a midweek briefing featuring the immigrant advocacy group, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democratic representative, said that four nationals were arrested by immigration for about 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where four American citizens should be arrested for without cause." He clarified the citizens were released on the following day with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not about removing offenders," Goldman stated. "This constitutes a militarized effort to provoke unrest. It is purely a excuse to generate turmoil for this administration to deploy the troops to stop conflict that they themselves caused."

Broad Criticism

Anger over the ICE raid rapidly grew – all three NYC mayor hopefuls criticized the incident, as did NY's governor.

"Once again, the federal government chooses heavy-handed tactics that create fear, rather than security. It needs to cease," a political candidate declared.

NYC immigrant rights groups voiced concern also.

"Immigration agents targeted Manhattan's Chinatown with armored transports, covered personnel and riot gear to focus on local sellers trying to make a living. This raid had no connection to community security and was entirely about terrorizing immigrant families and areas," stated the president of a major immigrant coalition.

Official Guidelines

Agency rules forbids the holding of citizens and the organization has said it will not apprehend American nationals. Nevertheless, investigative journalism has revealed that numerous American nationals have been held against their will by immigration authorities during the period of the present government.

Ongoing Trend

ICE raids have been becoming more common in NY and around the country lately.

An October operation in central NYC was the first known raid on an immigrant shelter of the existing leadership. Demonstrations against ICE are widespread as are accusations of force and inhumane treatment.

Recently, a document provided by civil rights groups stated medical neglect of women with child in ICE facilities.