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New York state AG has introduced a new digital platform urging locals to share visual evidence of ICE operations across the state. This move follows a shortly after a high-profile ICE raid shook Manhattan's Chinatown, sparking large-scale demonstrations.

American Citizens Arrested In ICE Operation

A lawmaker disclosed during a midweek briefing that four US citizens were arrested and held for "almost a full day" following the enforcement action. Rallies occurred in the city on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Each citizen has the right to reside free from terror," the attorney general wrote in a statement.

"For those who saw and documented immigration enforcement yesterday, I encourage you to provide that material with the authorities. We are dedicated to examining these reports and evaluating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The form provides fields to upload images and video footage of the raid, as well as a section to indicate where it occurred. Prior to sending, users must tick a option that states that "the office could utilize any evidence provided in a official report, including in a court case or government document."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Manhattan operation, which witnesses say involved dozens of federal agents, occurred in a popular area of Manhattan where fake products and additional items are regularly available en masse – often to visitors.

Videos of the operation depict numerous hooded and equipped officers zip-tying and detaining a man, and forcing aside witnesses. Throngs of locals followed the agents through the streets. An military-style transport was observed moving along the urban roads.

Leadership Statements

In a midweek briefing featuring the immigrant advocacy group, congressman Dan Goldman, a lawmaker, stated that four nationals were detained by ICE for about 24 hours and that there were "no conditions where US citizens should be arrested 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 about removing offenders," he said. "This constitutes a military-style operation to create conflict. It is purely a pretext to incite violence for federal officials to utilize the military to stop unrest that they have created."

Broad Criticism

Anger over the immigration operation rapidly grew – each of the NYC mayor hopefuls criticized the incident, as did NY's governor.

"Repeatedly, the federal government selects heavy-handed tactics that instill panic, rather than security. It must stop," a contender declared.

The city's community groups expressed outrage also.

"ICE targeted the neighborhood with armored transports, hooded officers and tactical gear to go after local sellers working to survive. This action had no relation to citizen protection and focused completely on intimidating residents and areas," stated the president of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines bans the arrest of American nationals and the agency has claimed it does not apprehend American nationals. However, external research has discovered that more than 170 US citizens have been detained unlawfully by federal agents since the start of the present government.

Current Situation

ICE raids have been cropping up increasingly in New York and nationwide lately.

A recent action in the city center was the initial documented operation on an immigrant shelter of the existing leadership. Rallies against immigration enforcement are widespread including claims of aggression and inhumane treatment.

Most recently, a letter provided by legal entities claimed healthcare failures of women with child in detention centers.