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New York state AG has introduced a new online portal urging citizens to provide images and footage of ICE operations across the state. This step follows a shortly after a major enforcement action disrupted Manhattan's Chinatown, triggering mass outcry.

American Citizens Detained During Enforcement Action

A US congressman announced during a news conference that four American citizens were detained and kept for "almost a full day" after Tuesday's raid. Rallies erupted in NYC on consecutive evenings.

"Each citizen has the right to exist without intimidation," state officials wrote in a statement.

"If you witnessed and documented immigration enforcement yesterday, I encourage you to provide that material with my office. We are committed to examining these submissions and investigating any violations of law."

Form Details

The portal provides spaces to send photos and videos of the incident, plus a field to note where it occurred. Prior to sending, submitters must check a box that confirms that "the office might employ any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, such as in a legal proceeding or government document."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The Chinatown raid, which observers say featured dozens of federal agents, took place in a well-known neighborhood of the city where fake products and other goods are sold daily widely – frequently to sightseers.

Videos of Tuesday's raid depict numerous covered and weaponized personnel zip-tying and detaining a individual, and pushing back witnesses. Masses of locals trailed the agents through the streets. An armored truck was also seen traveling down the city streets.

Leadership Statements

During a midweek briefing featuring the New York immigrant rights coalition, the congressman, a lawmaker, announced that four US citizens were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no situations where US citizens should be arrested for without cause." He noted the individuals were released on the following day with no legal action taken.

"The goal is evident here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," he remarked. "This is a armed campaign to create conflict. It is simply a justification to incite violence for federal officials to bring in the troops to stop conflict that they themselves caused."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the ICE raid quickly spread – every political contenders denounced the incident, along with the state leader.

"Repeatedly, the current administration opts for oppressive displays that instill panic, not safety. It has to end," one mayoral candidate stated.

NYC immigrant rights groups spoke out too.

"ICE targeted Chinatown in NYC with military-style vehicles, masked agents and riot gear to target small merchants working to survive. This raid had no relation to community security and everything to do with terrorizing immigrant families and areas," stated the head of a major immigrant coalition.

Official Guidelines

ICE policy bans the detention of US citizens and the bureau has stated it does not take into custody US citizens. Yet, independent reporting has found that over 170 US citizens have been detained unlawfully by federal agents since the start of the current administration.

Recent Pattern

Immigration operations have been rising in frequency in the state and around the country this year.

A mid-October raid in central NYC was the first known raid on an housing center of the current administration. Protests targeting ICE are commonplace including claims of force and abusive practices.

Most recently, a letter filed by legal entities stated inadequate care of pregnant women in ICE facilities.