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New York state attorney general has rolled out a recent online portal urging locals to submit visual evidence of ICE operations around New York. This action follows a day after a major immigration operation shook NYC's Chinatown, sparking mass demonstrations.

US Citizens Arrested During Enforcement Action

A congressional representative disclosed during a midweek briefing that four American citizens were detained and detained for "nearly 24 hours" following the enforcement action. Demonstrations broke out in NYC on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"All New York residents is entitled to live without fear," the attorney general wrote in a release.

"Anyone who observed and documented ICE activity recently, I encourage you to submit that evidence with my office. We are dedicated to examining these accounts and determining any violations of law."

Submission Process

The platform provides spaces to send visual evidence of the incident, plus a section to note where it occurred. When submitting, users must mark a option that confirms that "authorities may use any materials, images, or footage in a legal proceeding, such as in a lawsuit or public report."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The enforcement action, which onlookers say featured dozens of federal agents, took place in a popular area of Manhattan where counterfeit purses, items, goods and additional items are regularly available in large quantities – typically to visitors.

Recordings of the operation reveal several covered and weaponized federal agents restraining and arresting a individual, and shoving away onlookers. Crowds of residents followed the officers down the sidewalks. An armored military vehicle was noticed moving along the city streets.

Official Reactions

During a Wednesday press conference held with the rights organization, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, stated that four US citizens were detained by ICE for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no situations where four American citizens should be arrested for no reason." He noted the citizens were let go on the following day with no charges filed.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not to take criminals off the street," he stated. "This is a military-style operation to incite tension. It is simply a excuse to incite violence for this administration to utilize the troops to stop violence that they initiated."

Extensive Outcry

Fury over the federal action rapidly grew – each of the mayoral candidates condemned the incident, as did the state leader.

"Once again, the current administration opts for oppressive displays that instill panic, rather than security. It has to end," a contender wrote.

New York City community groups spoke out too.

"ICE descended on Chinatown in NYC with military-style vehicles, masked agents and tactical gear to focus on street vendors working to survive. This raid had nothing to do with public safety and focused completely on frightening communities and areas," said the president of a major immigrant coalition.

Agency Rules

Official guidelines forbids the arrest of American nationals and the agency has said it does not take into custody US citizens. Nevertheless, independent reporting has found that numerous US citizens have been held against their will by federal agents since the beginning of the current administration.

Current Situation

ICE raids have been cropping up increasingly in New York and across the US this year.

A recent action in midtown Manhattan was the first known raid on an housing center of the existing leadership. Demonstrations targeting federal operations are commonplace along with accusations of force and abusive practices.

Recently, a document submitted by advocacy organizations claimed inadequate care of pregnant women in government custody.