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New York state attorney general has rolled out a new digital platform urging citizens to submit visual evidence of immigration raids throughout New York. This step follows a shortly after a high-profile immigration operation rattled Chinatown in Manhattan, sparking mass protests.

American Citizens Arrested During ICE Operation

A US congressman announced during a news conference that four US citizens were detained and held for "nearly 24 hours" following Tuesday's raid. Protests erupted in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Every New Yorker deserves to live without fear," state officials wrote in a release.

"Anyone who observed and documented immigration enforcement yesterday, I encourage you to submit that material with us. We are committed to assessing these submissions and determining any violations of law."

Form Details

The portal includes spaces to submit images and video footage of the raid, as well as a field to note geographic details. Prior to sending, submitters must mark a box that confirms that "the office may use any evidence provided in a official report, such as in a court case or government document."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The Chinatown raid, which observers say featured dozens of government officers, occurred in a popular area of the city where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and other goods are sold daily in large quantities – frequently to tourists.

Footage of the operation show several covered and weaponized federal agents securing and holding a individual, and pushing back onlookers. Masses of residents trailed the officers through the streets. An armored truck was observed moving along the urban roads.

Official Reactions

At a news conference held with the New York immigrant rights coalition, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democratic representative, stated that four US citizens were detained by ICE for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where US citizens should be arrested for without cause." He noted the persons were let go on the following day with no charges filed.

"The goal is evident here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," he remarked. "This represents a militarized effort to create conflict. It is merely a pretext to generate turmoil for federal officials to utilize the troops to halt violence that they have created."

Widespread Condemnation

Fury over the federal action escalated – each of the NYC mayor hopefuls condemned the raid, along with the state leader.

"Once again, the Trump administration chooses authoritarian theatrics that generate terror, not safety. It has to end," one mayoral candidate wrote.

The city's advocacy organizations voiced concern as well.

"Immigration agents targeted Chinatown in NYC with tactical trucks, masked agents and tactical gear to focus on local sellers working to survive. This operation had no connection to citizen protection and focused completely on intimidating residents and communities," said the leader of a rights organization.

Official Guidelines

ICE policy bans the arrest of American nationals and the organization has claimed it does not take into custody US citizens. Yet, external research has revealed that numerous US citizens have been held against their will by immigration authorities since the beginning of the existing leadership.

Ongoing Trend

ICE raids have been becoming more common in New York and around the country lately.

A recent action in the city center was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Rallies opposing immigration enforcement are commonplace along with accusations of aggression and cruel conditions.

Latest, a letter provided by civil rights groups claimed medical neglect of pregnant women in government custody.