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New York state attorney general has introduced a new reporting form urging residents to submit visual evidence of ICE operations throughout New York. This step follows a shortly after a significant immigration operation shook Manhattan's Chinatown, triggering large-scale outcry.

US Citizens Detained In Raid

A lawmaker disclosed during a Wednesday press conference that four citizens were arrested and detained for "about 24 hours" following Tuesday's raid. Protests occurred in New York on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"All New York residents deserves to live without fear," the AG wrote in a announcement.

"Anyone who observed and recorded ICE activity yesterday, I urge you to provide that footage with us. We are pledged to reviewing these reports and determining any violations of law."

Submission Process

The form offers fields to send images and video footage of the operation, along with a section to specify location information. Before submitting, submitters must tick a option that states that "the office may use any materials, images, or footage in a official report, such as in a legal proceeding or official statement."

Information about the Chinatown Raid

The Manhattan operation, which witnesses say involved dozens of federal agents, occurred in a famous district of the city where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are sold daily en masse – often to sightseers.

Videos of the operation depict numerous covered and weaponized officers zip-tying and detaining a man, and forcing aside onlookers. Masses of residents trailed the personnel through the streets. An armored military vehicle was also seen rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

At a Wednesday press conference organized with the New York immigrant rights coalition, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democrat, said that four US citizens were detained by ICE for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no conditions where four American citizens should be arrested for without cause." He said the individuals were freed on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"The goal is evident here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman stated. "This constitutes a militarized effort to incite tension. It is purely a excuse to incite violence for the government to utilize the armed forces to prevent unrest that they initiated."

Widespread Condemnation

Outrage over the federal action quickly spread – every mayoral candidates condemned the operation, along with the state leader.

"Repeatedly, the current administration opts for oppressive displays that create fear, instead of protection. It needs to cease," a contender declared.

The city's immigrant rights groups voiced concern too.

"Immigration agents descended on the neighborhood with tactical trucks, covered personnel and protective equipment to target small merchants attempting to earn income. This operation had nothing to do with citizen protection and was entirely about frightening communities and neighborhoods," remarked the leader of a rights organization.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines forbids the holding of citizens and the bureau has claimed it does not take into custody US citizens. Nevertheless, independent reporting has revealed that numerous American nationals have been taken illegally by federal agents since the start of the current administration.

Current Situation

Enforcement actions have been cropping up increasingly in the state and nationwide this year.

A recent action in the city center was the earliest reported action on an immigrant shelter of the existing leadership. Demonstrations targeting ICE are commonplace as are allegations of force and cruel conditions.

Latest, a submission submitted by advocacy organizations stated medical neglect of expectant mothers in government custody.