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New York state AG has introduced a new online portal encouraging residents to share images and footage of immigration raids across New York. This move follows a day after a significant ICE raid rattled NYC's Chinatown, prompting mass protests.

American Citizens Arrested During Enforcement Action

A congressional representative disclosed during a news conference that four American citizens were taken into custody and kept for "almost a full day" after Tuesday's raid. Demonstrations erupted in the city on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Each citizen is entitled to live without fear," the AG wrote in a announcement.

"Anyone who observed and recorded ICE activity recently, I encourage you to submit that material with my office. We are dedicated to examining these submissions and evaluating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The form provides options to send photos and videos of the raid, plus a area to note where it occurred. When submitting, users must check a checkbox that states that "the office may use any materials, images, or footage in a official report, such as in a legal proceeding or government document."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The Manhattan operation, which observers say involved more than 50 ICE personnel, happened in a famous neighborhood of Manhattan where counterfeit products and other goods are commonly traded widely – often to visitors.

Footage of the incident depict numerous masked and armed officers restraining and arresting a individual, and forcing aside witnesses. Masses of locals pursued the personnel along the roads. An military-style transport was noticed moving along the urban roads.

Political Response

In a Wednesday press conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a Democrat, stated that four American citizens were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no situations where US citizens should be taken for no reason." He clarified the citizens were released on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," he said. "This constitutes a militarized effort to incite tension. It is merely a pretext to incite violence for this administration to bring in the military to stop violence that they have created."

Broad Criticism

Outrage over the federal action quickly spread – each of the political contenders denounced the raid, as did NY's governor.

"Repeatedly, the current administration selects heavy-handed tactics that generate terror, rather than security. It must stop," a contender wrote.

NYC advocacy organizations spoke out as well.

"Immigration agents descended on Manhattan's Chinatown with tactical trucks, masked agents and riot gear to focus on local sellers attempting to earn income. This operation had no relation to community security and everything to do with intimidating residents and communities," said the head of a major immigrant coalition.

ICE Policies

ICE policy bans the holding of citizens and the bureau has claimed it refrains from take into custody citizens. Yet, external research has revealed that over 170 US citizens have been taken illegally by federal agents during the period of the current administration.

Ongoing Trend

Immigration operations have been becoming more common in NY and around the country this year.

A recent action in midtown Manhattan was the first known raid on an housing center of the present government. Rallies against ICE are commonplace including allegations of aggression and abusive practices.

Recently, a document provided by legal entities alleged healthcare failures of women with child in detention centers.