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The state attorney general has launched a new digital platform urging residents to provide visual evidence of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This action comes just a day after a major ICE raid shook NYC's Chinatown, prompting mass outcry.

US Citizens Arrested During Raid

A congressional representative disclosed during a midweek briefing that four citizens were taken into custody and detained for "nearly 24 hours" following the previous day's operation. Rallies broke out in the city on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Each citizen deserves to reside free from terror," the AG stated in a announcement.

"For those who saw and captured federal operations yesterday, I urge you to submit that material with my office. We are committed to examining these reports and evaluating any violations of law."

Form Details

The form includes spaces to upload images and video footage of the operation, along with a field to specify location information. Prior to sending, submitters must mark a checkbox that states that "authorities could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a legal proceeding, including in a court case or official statement."

Details of the Manhattan Operation

The Chinatown raid, which witnesses say included dozens of ICE personnel, occurred in a famous district of NYC where counterfeit purses, items, goods and additional items are commonly traded widely – often to sightseers.

Videos of the operation reveal numerous hooded and equipped federal agents securing and holding a man, and pushing back onlookers. Crowds of locals trailed the agents along the roads. An military-style transport was noticed rolling through the urban roads.

Official Reactions

During a midweek briefing featuring the immigrant advocacy group, the congressman, a Democrat, said that four American citizens were arrested by immigration for almost a full day and that there were "no circumstances where US citizens should be arrested for no reason." He noted the individuals were let go on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," the congressman said. "This is a armed campaign to incite tension. It is merely a justification to generate turmoil for the government to deploy the troops to halt conflict that they have created."

Widespread Condemnation

Anger over the ICE raid quickly spread – each of the mayoral candidates criticized the operation, including NY's governor.

"Repeatedly, the federal government chooses heavy-handed tactics that generate terror, instead of protection. It needs to cease," a contender stated.

NYC advocacy organizations expressed outrage too.

"Federal officers raided Chinatown in NYC with armored transports, hooded officers and tactical gear to focus on local sellers trying to make a living. This action had nothing to do with public safety and everything to do with frightening communities and communities," stated the head of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

Agency rules bans the arrest of American nationals and the agency has claimed it refrains from apprehend citizens. However, external research has discovered that numerous US citizens have been taken illegally by ICE since the start of the present government.

Ongoing Trend

Enforcement actions have been becoming more common in NY and around the country this year.

An October operation in the city center was the earliest reported action on an immigrant shelter of the current administration. Protests targeting federal operations are commonplace including claims of violence and cruel conditions.

Recently, a submission submitted by legal entities alleged healthcare failures of pregnant women in ICE facilities.