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New York state AG has rolled out a recent digital platform asking residents to share photos and videos of ICE operations throughout the state. This step comes just a shortly after a high-profile immigration operation disrupted Chinatown in Manhattan, sparking widespread protests.

American Citizens Held In Raid

A congressional representative revealed during a news conference that four citizens were arrested and held for "almost a full day" after the previous day's operation. Protests broke out in the city on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"All New York residents is entitled to exist without intimidation," the AG declared in a announcement.

"For those who saw and captured federal operations during the raid, I encourage you to provide that material with the authorities. We are dedicated to reviewing these accounts and investigating any wrongdoings."

Portal Features

The portal includes spaces to submit images and video footage of the operation, along with a section to note where it occurred. Prior to sending, individuals must tick a box that states that "the attorney general might employ any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, including in a legal proceeding or official statement."

Details of the Manhattan Operation

The Chinatown raid, which witnesses say featured more than 50 government officers, happened in a popular neighborhood of Manhattan where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are regularly available widely – often to tourists.

Videos of the incident depict multiple hooded and equipped federal agents securing and holding a person, and shoving away bystanders. Masses of New Yorkers pursued the officers along the roads. An armored truck was noticed rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

At a news conference organized with the New York immigrant rights coalition, congressman Dan Goldman, a lawmaker, stated that four nationals were detained by ICE for almost a full day and that there were "no circumstances where four American citizens should be detained for without cause." He noted the persons were freed on the following day with no charges filed.

"The goal is evident here. It is not about removing offenders," Goldman stated. "This represents a military-style operation to incite tension. It is merely a pretext to generate turmoil for the government to bring in the troops to halt unrest that they initiated."

Widespread Condemnation

Anger over the federal action escalated – each of the NYC mayor hopefuls condemned the incident, along with NY's governor.

"Once again, the federal government chooses oppressive displays that create fear, rather than security. It has to end," a contender declared.

The city's advocacy organizations voiced concern also.

"ICE targeted the neighborhood with tactical trucks, hooded officers and riot gear to go after local sellers trying to make a living. This action had no connection to public safety and everything to do with terrorizing immigrant families and areas," stated the president of a major immigrant coalition.

Agency Rules

Official guidelines forbids the holding of citizens and the organization has stated it will not arrest or detain US citizens. Nevertheless, investigative journalism has discovered that numerous American nationals have been held against their will by ICE since the start of the current administration.

Recent Pattern

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in New York and around the country recently.

A mid-October raid in central NYC was the first known raid on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Rallies opposing ICE are commonplace as are claims of aggression and cruel conditions.

Latest, a submission submitted by legal entities alleged healthcare failures of expectant mothers in detention centers.