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New York state AG has launched a recent online portal asking citizens to share visual evidence of immigration raids around New York. This step follows a shortly after a significant ICE raid disrupted NYC's Chinatown, triggering large-scale outcry.

American Citizens Arrested In ICE Operation

A US congressman disclosed during a news conference that four US citizens were detained and kept for "almost a full day" after the enforcement action. Demonstrations broke out in the city on consecutive evenings.

"Each citizen is entitled to exist without intimidation," the AG stated in a statement.

"If you witnessed and recorded federal operations yesterday, I urge you to submit that footage with us. We are committed to examining these submissions and investigating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The form offers spaces to upload photos and videos of the raid, along with a section to specify geographic details. When submitting, individuals must tick a checkbox that states that "authorities might employ any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, including in a lawsuit or government document."

Details of the ICE Action

The Manhattan operation, which observers say involved over fifty government officers, happened in a well-known area of Manhattan where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are commonly traded widely – typically to visitors.

Videos of the operation reveal multiple hooded and equipped federal agents zip-tying and detaining a individual, and pushing back onlookers. Crowds of locals trailed the agents along the roads. An armored truck was also seen moving along the urban roads.

Political Response

At a news conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a Democrat, stated that four US citizens were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no situations where four American citizens should be taken for without cause." He noted the persons were released on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman stated. "This constitutes a armed campaign to incite tension. It is simply a excuse to generate turmoil for this administration to deploy the troops to stop conflict that they themselves caused."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the federal action quickly spread – every NYC mayor hopefuls denounced the operation, along with NY's governor.

"Once again, the federal government opts for oppressive displays that create fear, rather than security. It must stop," a contender stated.

NYC immigrant rights groups spoke out too.

"ICE targeted Chinatown in NYC with tactical trucks, hooded officers and riot gear to focus on small merchants working to survive. This action had nothing to do with community security and focused completely on terrorizing immigrant families and areas," stated the head of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

Agency rules forbids the holding of citizens and the organization has claimed it does not arrest or detain citizens. However, investigative journalism has discovered that numerous American nationals have been taken illegally by federal agents since the start of the present government.

Ongoing Trend

Immigration operations have been rising in frequency in NY and nationwide lately.

An October operation in the city center was the first known raid on an housing center of the present government. Rallies opposing immigration enforcement are commonplace as are claims of aggression and cruel conditions.

Most recently, a document provided by civil rights groups alleged medical neglect of women with child in detention centers.