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The state AG has introduced a recent online portal asking locals to provide images and footage of ICE operations across the state. This move comes just a shortly after a significant immigration operation rattled NYC's Chinatown, sparking large-scale protests.

American Citizens Arrested During Enforcement Action

A lawmaker announced during a Wednesday press conference that four citizens were arrested and detained for "almost a full day" after the enforcement action. Rallies erupted in NYC on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Every New Yorker has the right to exist without intimidation," the AG wrote in a statement.

"For those who saw and captured federal operations during the raid, I encourage you to submit that material with the authorities. We are committed to examining these accounts and evaluating any legal breaches."

Portal Features

The platform offers options to send photos and videos of the operation, plus a area to note geographic details. When submitting, submitters must check a checkbox that confirms that "authorities could utilize any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, such as in a lawsuit or public report."

Information about the ICE Action

The Manhattan operation, which witnesses say featured dozens of federal agents, happened in a famous district of the city where imitation purses, items, goods and additional items are sold daily in large quantities – frequently to sightseers.

Footage of the incident depict numerous masked and armed personnel restraining and arresting a individual, and forcing aside bystanders. Throngs of New Yorkers trailed the agents through the streets. An military-style transport was also seen rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

At a midweek briefing held with the New York immigrant rights coalition, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democratic representative, stated that four American citizens were taken by federal agents for about 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be detained for no reason." He said the individuals were released on Wednesday with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not about removing offenders," Goldman said. "This is a militarized effort to create conflict. It is purely a pretext to incite violence for this administration to utilize the troops to halt unrest that they themselves caused."

Broad Criticism

Anger over the ICE raid quickly spread – all three political contenders denounced the raid, along with the state leader.

"Yet again, the Trump administration selects oppressive displays that generate terror, instead of protection. It must stop," one mayoral candidate stated.

NYC immigrant rights groups voiced concern as well.

"Federal officers raided Manhattan's Chinatown with tactical trucks, masked agents and riot gear to go after local sellers attempting to earn income. This action had no relation to citizen protection and focused completely on intimidating residents and areas," said the president of a major immigrant coalition.

Agency Rules

Agency rules forbids the detention of US citizens and the agency has claimed it does not take into custody US citizens. However, independent reporting has revealed that numerous citizens have been taken illegally by federal agents since the start of the existing leadership.

Ongoing Trend

Immigration operations have been rising in frequency in NY and around the country recently.

A recent action in central NYC was the initial documented operation on an housing center of the current administration. Protests opposing ICE are commonplace as are accusations of force and inhumane treatment.

Recently, a letter filed by advocacy organizations alleged healthcare failures of women with child in government custody.