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The state attorney general has introduced a fresh online portal asking locals to provide photos and videos of immigration raids around New York. This step comes just a shortly after a major immigration operation rattled Chinatown in Manhattan, prompting widespread outcry.

American Citizens Arrested In Raid

A congressional representative announced during a midweek briefing that four American citizens were taken into custody and held for "about 24 hours" after the previous day's operation. Demonstrations erupted in New York on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Each citizen has the right to reside free from terror," state officials declared in a statement.

"For those who saw and documented immigration enforcement during the raid, I ask you to provide that footage with us. We are dedicated to reviewing these reports and investigating any violations of law."

Submission Process

The form includes options to send visual evidence of the raid, plus a section to specify location information. When submitting, users must tick a checkbox that states that "the attorney general might employ any documents, photographs, or videos in a legal proceeding, including in a legal proceeding or public report."

Information about the Chinatown Raid

The Chinatown raid, which witnesses say included dozens of ICE personnel, happened in a well-known area of Manhattan where imitation purses, items, goods and additional items are commonly traded widely – typically to sightseers.

Recordings of the operation depict numerous hooded and equipped federal agents securing and holding a individual, and shoving away witnesses. Crowds of residents followed the personnel through the streets. An armored military vehicle was observed traveling down the urban roads.

Political Response

In a news conference organized with the rights organization, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democrat, announced that four American citizens were arrested by immigration for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be arrested for no reason." He said the individuals were released on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not to take criminals off the street," Goldman stated. "This represents a armed campaign to provoke unrest. It is merely a excuse to provoke conflict for this administration to bring in the troops to prevent unrest that they themselves caused."

Broad Criticism

Anger over the federal action rapidly grew – all three NYC mayor hopefuls denounced the operation, as did the state leader.

"Once again, the federal government chooses oppressive displays that create fear, rather than security. It needs to cease," a political candidate stated.

The city's community groups voiced concern also.

"Federal officers descended on Chinatown in NYC with tactical trucks, hooded officers and riot gear to target local sellers working to survive. This operation had no relation to public safety and focused completely on terrorizing immigrant families and areas," remarked the president of a major immigrant coalition.

Agency Rules

Agency rules forbids the detention of US citizens and the bureau has stated it refrains from take into custody US citizens. Yet, independent reporting has found that more than 170 American nationals have been held against their will by immigration authorities since the start of the current administration.

Ongoing Trend

Enforcement actions have been becoming more common in New York and nationwide lately.

A recent action in the city center was the first known raid on an immigrant shelter of the present government. Demonstrations targeting ICE are widespread as are accusations of violence and cruel conditions.

Recently, a submission filed by advocacy organizations alleged inadequate care of women with child in ICE facilities.