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The state AG has introduced a new online portal urging locals to share photos and videos of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This move follows a shortly after a major ICE raid disrupted NYC's Chinatown, triggering widespread protests.

American Citizens Held During Raid

A congressional representative revealed during a midweek briefing that four US citizens were taken into custody and kept for "about 24 hours" following the previous day's operation. Demonstrations occurred in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"All New York residents deserves to live without fear," the AG declared in a announcement.

"If you witnessed and captured immigration enforcement recently, I encourage you to submit that evidence with my office. We are dedicated to assessing these accounts and investigating any wrongdoings."

Form Details

The form provides spaces to send photos and videos of the raid, along with a area to note geographic details. Before submitting, individuals must mark a checkbox that acknowledges that "authorities might employ any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, such as in a lawsuit or official statement."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Chinatown raid, which observers say involved over fifty ICE personnel, happened in a well-known district of Manhattan where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are regularly available in large quantities – typically to tourists.

Footage of the incident reveal numerous masked and armed personnel restraining and arresting a man, and forcing aside onlookers. Crowds of residents pursued the officers along the roads. An military-style transport was also seen traveling down the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

At a news conference held with the immigrant advocacy group, the congressman, a lawmaker, said that four US citizens were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no situations where US citizens should be arrested for no reason." He noted the citizens were freed on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not about removing offenders," the congressman said. "This is a militarized effort to incite tension. It is simply a excuse to generate turmoil for the government to deploy the military to stop violence that they have created."

Widespread Condemnation

Anger over the ICE raid escalated – each of the mayoral candidates criticized the raid, including NY's governor.

"Yet again, the federal government chooses oppressive displays that generate terror, not safety. It needs to cease," a political candidate declared.

The city's community groups spoke out also.

"Federal officers raided the neighborhood with tactical trucks, masked agents and riot gear to go after local sellers trying to make a living. This raid had no connection to public safety and everything to do with frightening communities and neighborhoods," stated the leader of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

ICE policy forbids the arrest of American nationals and the bureau has claimed it does not apprehend citizens. Yet, external research has discovered that more than 170 US citizens have been detained unlawfully by immigration authorities since the start of the existing leadership.

Recent Pattern

ICE raids have been rising in frequency in New York and across the US recently.

A mid-October raid in the city center was the initial documented operation on an housing center of the present government. Rallies opposing ICE are commonplace along with allegations of force and inhumane treatment.

Latest, a letter provided by legal entities alleged inadequate care of women with child in detention centers.