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The state AG has introduced a new reporting form urging locals to submit images and footage of federal immigration enforcement across the state. This step follows a day after a significant ICE raid disrupted Chinatown in Manhattan, triggering large-scale protests.

American Citizens Arrested During ICE Operation

A lawmaker disclosed during a news conference that four American citizens were taken into custody and held for "about 24 hours" following the enforcement action. Protests broke out in New York on consecutive evenings.

"All New York residents is entitled to reside free from terror," the AG stated in a announcement.

"Anyone who observed and captured ICE activity yesterday, I encourage you to share that footage with the authorities. We are dedicated to reviewing these accounts and evaluating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The form includes options to submit photos and videos of the incident, plus a field to specify location information. When submitting, users must check a option that states that "the attorney general could utilize any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, including in a court case or government document."

Information about the ICE Action

The Manhattan operation, which witnesses say involved dozens of ICE personnel, occurred in a famous district of NYC where counterfeit products and merchandise are regularly available in large quantities – often to visitors.

Videos of Tuesday's raid show multiple hooded and equipped officers zip-tying and detaining a person, and pushing back witnesses. Masses of residents pursued the officers through the streets. An armored truck was noticed traveling down the city streets.

Leadership Statements

At a Wednesday press conference held with the New York immigrant rights coalition, Representative Goldman, a Democratic representative, said that four nationals were taken by federal agents for about 24 hours and that there were "no conditions where four American citizens should be detained for no reason." He said the individuals were let go on the following day with no charges filed.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not to take criminals off the street," Goldman stated. "This represents a armed campaign to incite tension. It is simply a justification to provoke conflict for the government to utilize the military to prevent unrest that they themselves caused."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the ICE raid rapidly grew – every political contenders criticized the raid, including NY's governor.

"Once again, the federal government selects oppressive displays that generate terror, rather than security. It has to end," a contender declared.

The city's immigrant rights groups spoke out too.

"Federal officers targeted Chinatown in NYC with armored transports, covered personnel and riot gear to target small merchants working to survive. This operation had no relation to public safety and focused completely on terrorizing immigrant families and areas," stated the president of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines prohibits the arrest of American nationals and the bureau has said it does not arrest or detain citizens. However, external research has revealed that more than 170 US citizens have been taken illegally by federal agents since the beginning of the present government.

Current Situation

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in the state and around the country this year.

An October operation in central NYC was the earliest reported action on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Demonstrations opposing immigration enforcement are widespread along with claims of violence and inhumane treatment.

Most recently, a document provided by legal entities claimed inadequate care of women with child in government custody.