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The state AG has introduced a recent reporting form encouraging citizens to share images and footage of immigration raids throughout the state. This move follows a day after a high-profile ICE raid shook NYC's Chinatown, sparking widespread protests.

American Citizens Arrested In ICE Operation

A lawmaker revealed during a midweek briefing that four citizens were arrested and kept for "nearly 24 hours" after the previous day's operation. Protests occurred in NYC on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"All New York residents has the right to reside free from terror," the AG stated in a release.

"For those who saw and captured immigration enforcement during the raid, I encourage you to provide that evidence with us. We are dedicated to reviewing these submissions and determining any violations of law."

Portal Features

The form includes spaces to upload visual evidence of the incident, as well as a field to note where it occurred. Prior to sending, individuals must mark a option that acknowledges that "the office may use any materials, images, or footage in a official report, including in a legal proceeding or official statement."

Information about the ICE Action

The Manhattan operation, which witnesses say involved dozens of federal agents, happened in a famous area of the city where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and merchandise are commonly traded widely – frequently to visitors.

Footage of Tuesday's raid reveal multiple covered and weaponized personnel zip-tying and detaining a individual, and shoving away onlookers. Crowds of locals trailed the personnel through the streets. An armored military vehicle was also seen moving along the city streets.

Official Reactions

In a midweek briefing featuring the immigrant advocacy group, the congressman, a lawmaker, announced that four American citizens were arrested by immigration for almost a full day and that there were "no conditions where nationals should be arrested for no reason." He noted the individuals were freed on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not about removing offenders," Goldman stated. "This is a armed campaign to incite tension. It is purely a pretext to generate turmoil for the government to deploy the military to prevent unrest that they themselves caused."

Widespread Condemnation

Outrage over the federal action escalated – all three NYC mayor hopefuls denounced the incident, including Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Once again, the federal government selects heavy-handed tactics that instill panic, rather than security. It must stop," a contender stated.

NYC community groups voiced concern too.

"ICE descended on Chinatown in NYC with military-style vehicles, covered personnel and riot gear to go after local sellers trying to make a living. This operation had no relation to community security and was entirely about terrorizing immigrant families and neighborhoods," said the head of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines prohibits the holding of citizens and the organization has stated it does not take into custody citizens. Nevertheless, independent reporting has revealed that numerous American nationals have been taken illegally by ICE since the beginning of the existing leadership.

Current Situation

Immigration operations have been becoming more common in NY and nationwide this year.

A recent action in the city center was the first known raid on an immigrant shelter of the current administration. Rallies against ICE are commonplace as are allegations of violence and cruel conditions.

Recently, a submission filed by legal entities alleged inadequate care of women with child in detention centers.