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The state AG has rolled out a fresh online portal encouraging citizens to provide visual evidence of ICE operations throughout New York. This move comes just a day after a high-profile immigration operation disrupted Chinatown in Manhattan, prompting mass demonstrations.

US Citizens Held During Raid

A congressional representative disclosed during a news conference that four US citizens were taken into custody and held for "almost a full day" following the enforcement action. Demonstrations erupted in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"All New York residents has the right to live without fear," state officials wrote in a statement.

"Anyone who observed and captured immigration enforcement recently, I urge you to submit that footage with my office. We are dedicated to reviewing these submissions and evaluating any violations of law."

Submission Process

The portal includes options to submit images and video footage of the raid, plus a area to indicate location information. Before submitting, users must check a box that confirms that "the office may use any evidence provided in a official report, including in a court case or government document."

Details of the ICE Action

The Chinatown raid, which observers say included over fifty government officers, took place in a famous area of NYC where counterfeit purses, items, goods and additional items are commonly traded en masse – frequently to visitors.

Videos of the operation reveal multiple hooded and equipped officers securing and holding a man, and forcing aside onlookers. Crowds of locals trailed the officers through the streets. An armored truck was observed moving along the city streets.

Official Reactions

At a news conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, said that four US citizens were arrested by immigration for about 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be detained for no reason." He noted the citizens were let go on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not about removing offenders," he said. "This represents a armed campaign to create conflict. It is simply a excuse to provoke conflict for the government to bring in the troops to prevent violence that they have created."

Extensive Outcry

Anger over the federal action rapidly grew – all three political contenders condemned the incident, as did Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Repeatedly, the federal government opts for oppressive displays that create fear, not safety. It must stop," a political candidate stated.

New York City advocacy organizations spoke out as well.

"Federal officers descended on Manhattan's Chinatown with tactical trucks, hooded officers and tactical gear to focus on local sellers working to survive. This raid had nothing to do with public safety and everything to do with intimidating residents and communities," said the head of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

Agency rules bans the detention of US citizens and the organization has said it refrains from apprehend citizens. Yet, investigative journalism has found that more than 170 US citizens have been held against their will by immigration authorities since the start of the current administration.

Recent Pattern

Enforcement actions have been becoming more common in NY and across the US this year.

A recent action in midtown Manhattan was the earliest reported action on an refuge facility of the current administration. Demonstrations targeting immigration enforcement are widespread including accusations of aggression and cruel conditions.

Recently, a letter filed by civil rights groups claimed healthcare failures of women with child in detention centers.