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The state AG has launched a recent online portal encouraging residents to share photos and videos of ICE operations across New York. This step follows a day after a high-profile immigration operation rattled Chinatown in Manhattan, triggering widespread outcry.

American Citizens Arrested During Enforcement Action

A lawmaker revealed during a Wednesday press conference that four American citizens were detained and detained for "about 24 hours" after the enforcement action. Demonstrations erupted in the city on consecutive evenings.

"All New York residents has the right to reside free from terror," state officials wrote in a statement.

"Anyone who observed and captured immigration enforcement recently, I urge you to share that evidence with my office. We are committed to reviewing these accounts and investigating any violations of law."

Portal Features

The portal provides options to submit images and video footage of the operation, along with a area to specify location information. Prior to sending, individuals must check a option that acknowledges that "the office may use any materials, images, or footage in a legal proceeding, such as in a legal proceeding or public report."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The enforcement action, which observers say included more than 50 federal agents, happened in a well-known neighborhood of Manhattan where fake products and additional items are commonly traded widely – frequently to tourists.

Videos of Tuesday's raid reveal multiple masked and armed officers securing and holding a individual, and pushing back witnesses. Throngs of locals followed the personnel along the roads. An armored truck was also seen moving along the urban roads.

Official Reactions

At a news conference featuring the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, stated that four nationals were taken by federal agents for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be taken for no reason." He said the individuals were freed on the following day with no accusations made.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," he remarked. "This constitutes a armed campaign to create conflict. It is simply a justification to incite violence for the government to bring in the troops to prevent violence that they themselves caused."

Extensive Outcry

Fury over the ICE raid rapidly grew – all three NYC mayor hopefuls denounced the raid, including NY's governor.

"Yet again, the federal government chooses oppressive displays that instill panic, instead of protection. It must stop," a contender declared.

The city's advocacy organizations expressed outrage also.

"ICE raided Chinatown in NYC with military-style vehicles, hooded officers and riot gear to go after small merchants working to survive. This action had no relation to public safety and focused completely on frightening communities and areas," said the leader of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

ICE policy prohibits the arrest of American nationals and the agency has claimed it does not arrest or detain American nationals. Yet, investigative journalism has revealed that more than 170 American nationals have been held against their will by federal agents since the beginning of the current administration.

Ongoing Trend

Immigration operations have been cropping up increasingly in the state and nationwide recently.

An October operation in central NYC was the initial documented operation on an immigrant shelter of the present government. Demonstrations against ICE are widespread as are accusations of violence and inhumane treatment.

Recently, a submission provided by advocacy organizations stated medical neglect of women with child in detention centers.