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New York state AG has launched a recent digital platform encouraging locals to provide images and footage of ICE operations around New York. This move comes just a day after a major enforcement action rattled Chinatown in Manhattan, triggering widespread demonstrations.

American Citizens Held During Enforcement Action

A lawmaker announced during a news conference that four US citizens were taken into custody and held for "nearly 24 hours" after Tuesday's raid. Demonstrations occurred in NYC on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Every New Yorker deserves to reside free from terror," the attorney general declared in a announcement.

"If you witnessed and recorded immigration enforcement during the raid, I encourage you to submit that evidence with the authorities. We are pledged to assessing these reports and evaluating any violations of law."

Portal Features

The form includes spaces to upload images and video footage of the raid, plus a field to indicate where it occurred. Prior to sending, users must tick a checkbox that confirms that "the office may use any documents, photographs, or videos in a legal proceeding, such as in a court case or public report."

Information about the Chinatown Raid

The Manhattan operation, which onlookers say featured more than 50 federal agents, happened in a famous neighborhood of the city where imitation purses, items, goods and merchandise are regularly available widely – typically to sightseers.

Videos of the operation show several hooded and equipped federal agents securing and holding a individual, and forcing aside bystanders. Throngs of locals followed the agents down the sidewalks. An armored truck was observed traveling down the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

During a news conference organized with the New York immigrant rights coalition, Representative Goldman, a Democrat, said that four nationals were arrested by immigration for almost a full day and that there were "no circumstances where US citizens should be arrested for without cause." He clarified the individuals were released on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"The goal is evident here. It is not about removing offenders," the congressman remarked. "This is a military-style operation to provoke unrest. It is simply a pretext to incite violence for federal officials to deploy the armed forces to prevent violence that they initiated."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the federal action quickly spread – every political contenders denounced the operation, along with NY's governor.

"Once again, the federal government opts for authoritarian theatrics that create fear, instead of protection. It needs to cease," a contender wrote.

New York City community groups voiced concern as well.

"Federal officers raided the neighborhood with armored transports, hooded officers and tactical gear to focus on small merchants working to survive. This action had nothing to do with public safety and everything to do with intimidating residents and communities," said the head of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

Agency rules bans the holding of citizens and the organization has stated it refrains from arrest or detain US citizens. Nevertheless, investigative journalism has revealed that over 170 citizens have been held against their will by ICE since the start of the present government.

Recent Pattern

Immigration operations have been cropping up increasingly in NY and nationwide recently.

A mid-October raid in central NYC was the earliest reported action on an immigrant shelter of the existing leadership. Rallies against ICE are widespread including accusations of force and abusive practices.

Most recently, a letter submitted by civil rights groups stated inadequate care of expectant mothers in ICE facilities.