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New York state AG has introduced a fresh digital platform encouraging residents to submit visual evidence of ICE operations around the state. This step comes just a day after a high-profile enforcement action rattled Chinatown in Manhattan, triggering mass outcry.

American Citizens Arrested During Enforcement Action

A congressional representative disclosed during a Wednesday press conference that four US citizens were detained and detained for "nearly 24 hours" following Tuesday's raid. Protests erupted in New York on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Each citizen has the right to reside free from terror," the AG stated in a release.

"Anyone who observed and recorded federal operations yesterday, I ask you to share that material with the authorities. We are pledged to reviewing these reports and determining any wrongdoings."

Form Details

The platform provides options to submit images and video footage of the raid, plus a area to specify location information. Before submitting, submitters must check a option that confirms that "the office might employ any evidence provided in a public document, including in a legal proceeding or official statement."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The Manhattan operation, which witnesses say involved more than 50 federal agents, happened in a well-known area of the city where counterfeit handbags, accessories, jewelry and merchandise are regularly available widely – typically to visitors.

Videos of the operation depict numerous masked and armed federal agents zip-tying and detaining a individual, and pushing back bystanders. Crowds of locals pursued the agents down the sidewalks. An armored military vehicle was observed traveling down the urban roads.

Official Reactions

In a midweek briefing organized with the immigrant advocacy group, congressman Dan 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 nationals should be detained for unjustly." He said the individuals were released on the following day with no legal action taken.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not to take criminals off the street," he remarked. "This is a armed campaign to provoke unrest. It is simply a excuse to generate turmoil for the government to bring in the military to stop conflict that they initiated."

Broad Criticism

Anger over the ICE raid escalated – all three political contenders denounced the operation, including NY's governor.

"Yet again, the federal government chooses authoritarian theatrics that generate terror, not safety. It must stop," one mayoral candidate declared.

NYC community groups spoke out too.

"ICE descended on Chinatown in NYC with tactical trucks, masked agents and protective equipment to go after street vendors working to survive. This operation had no relation to community security and everything to do with frightening communities and communities," remarked the president of a advocacy group.

Official Guidelines

ICE policy prohibits the detention of US citizens and the organization has stated it does not take into custody American nationals. Nevertheless, external research has revealed that numerous citizens have been held against their will by ICE since the beginning of the existing leadership.

Ongoing Trend

Enforcement actions have been cropping up increasingly in NY and around the country recently.

An October operation in central NYC was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the current administration. Protests opposing immigration enforcement are widespread including accusations of force and cruel conditions.

Latest, a letter provided by civil rights groups alleged medical neglect of pregnant women in detention centers.