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New York state attorney general has launched a new reporting form urging locals to submit visual evidence of ICE operations across the state. This step comes just a shortly after a high-profile enforcement action rattled Chinatown in Manhattan, sparking large-scale demonstrations.

US Citizens Held During ICE Operation

A US congressman disclosed during a midweek briefing that four US citizens were taken into custody and kept for "about 24 hours" after Tuesday's raid. Demonstrations occurred in NYC on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Every New Yorker has the right to reside free from terror," the attorney general stated in a announcement.

"If you witnessed and recorded ICE activity during the raid, I ask you to provide that evidence with the authorities. We are dedicated to reviewing these submissions and investigating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The platform offers fields to send photos and videos of the raid, along with a area to specify where it occurred. When submitting, submitters must check a checkbox that confirms that "authorities may use any materials, images, or footage in a public document, such as in a court case or public report."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Chinatown raid, which onlookers say featured over fifty federal agents, took place in a famous area of the city where fake products and other goods are commonly traded in large quantities – often to sightseers.

Footage of the operation depict numerous covered and weaponized federal agents securing and holding a man, and forcing aside witnesses. Masses of locals pursued the officers through the streets. An armored truck was observed moving along the city streets.

Political Response

During a Wednesday press conference held with the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a Democratic representative, announced that four US citizens were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no conditions where four American citizens should be taken for unjustly." He noted the persons were let go on the following day with no accusations made.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not about removing offenders," Goldman said. "This represents a military-style operation to incite tension. It is purely a excuse to generate turmoil for federal officials to deploy the troops to prevent unrest that they have created."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the ICE raid quickly spread – each of the political contenders criticized the operation, including Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Repeatedly, the federal government opts for oppressive displays that create fear, not safety. It has to end," a contender wrote.

NYC advocacy organizations expressed outrage as well.

"Immigration agents targeted Manhattan's Chinatown with armored transports, hooded officers and tactical gear to target small merchants attempting to earn income. This operation had no connection to community security and everything to do with intimidating residents and neighborhoods," said the leader of a rights organization.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines bans the holding of citizens and the agency has stated it does not arrest or detain US citizens. However, independent reporting has revealed that more than 170 US citizens have been taken illegally by ICE since the beginning of the present government.

Current Situation

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in the state and nationwide recently.

A mid-October raid in midtown Manhattan was the initial documented operation on an immigrant shelter of the present government. Protests against immigration enforcement are widespread including claims of violence and abusive practices.

Latest, a submission filed by legal entities claimed inadequate care of expectant mothers in detention centers.