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The state attorney general has introduced a recent online portal asking citizens to share images and footage of ICE operations across the state. This move follows a shortly after a high-profile ICE raid shook NYC's Chinatown, triggering large-scale outcry.

US Citizens Held During ICE Operation

A US congressman disclosed during a midweek briefing that four American citizens were arrested and held for "nearly 24 hours" following the enforcement action. Protests erupted in New York on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"All New York residents is entitled to exist without intimidation," the AG wrote in a statement.

"If you witnessed and documented federal operations recently, I encourage you to share that evidence with my office. We are committed to examining these submissions and investigating any violations of law."

Submission Process

The portal offers spaces to submit visual evidence of the operation, as well as a section to note geographic details. Prior to sending, submitters must tick a option that acknowledges that "authorities may use any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, such as in a court case or public report."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The enforcement action, which witnesses say featured dozens of federal agents, occurred in a popular area of the city where imitation products and other goods are regularly available widely – typically to tourists.

Recordings of Tuesday's raid depict several covered and weaponized officers securing and holding a person, and forcing aside witnesses. Crowds of New Yorkers trailed the agents along the roads. An armored truck was also seen moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

At a midweek briefing organized with the rights organization, congressman Dan Goldman, a lawmaker, stated that four American citizens were arrested by immigration for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no situations where US citizens should be arrested for without cause." He said the persons were freed on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman stated. "This constitutes a armed campaign to create conflict. It is merely a excuse to generate turmoil for the government to utilize the military to stop conflict that they have created."

Widespread Condemnation

Outrage over the ICE raid quickly spread – every NYC mayor hopefuls criticized the raid, including NY's governor.

"Repeatedly, the Trump administration opts for oppressive displays that instill panic, rather than security. It must stop," a political candidate declared.

New York City immigrant rights groups voiced concern as well.

"ICE raided Chinatown in NYC with armored transports, masked agents and protective equipment to target street vendors attempting to earn income. This action had no relation to community security and focused completely on intimidating residents and areas," remarked the president of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines bans the holding of citizens and the agency has said it will not apprehend American nationals. However, investigative journalism has discovered that over 170 American nationals have been detained unlawfully by ICE since the beginning of the existing leadership.

Current Situation

ICE raids have been rising in frequency in the state and across the US recently.

An October operation in the city center was the first known raid on an housing center of the current administration. Protests opposing immigration enforcement are ubiquitous as are accusations of violence and abusive practices.

Latest, a submission provided by legal entities stated inadequate care of pregnant women in ICE facilities.