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New York state AG has rolled out a fresh online portal encouraging locals to provide visual evidence of ICE operations throughout New York. This move comes just a day after a significant ICE raid shook Manhattan's Chinatown, sparking large-scale outcry.

American Citizens Detained During ICE Operation

A lawmaker announced during a midweek briefing that four citizens were arrested and held for "nearly 24 hours" after the enforcement action. Demonstrations erupted in New York on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Each citizen has the right to live without fear," the AG stated in a announcement.

"If you witnessed and recorded federal operations recently, I ask you to provide that evidence with my office. We are committed to assessing these reports and investigating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The platform offers fields to submit photos and videos of the operation, as well as a area to note geographic details. Before submitting, individuals must check a checkbox that states that "the attorney general might employ any evidence provided in a official report, including in a lawsuit or official statement."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The enforcement action, which observers say featured more than 50 federal agents, occurred in a well-known area of NYC where imitation products and additional items are sold daily in large quantities – typically to visitors.

Recordings of the operation show numerous hooded and equipped federal agents securing and holding a individual, and forcing aside witnesses. Throngs of residents followed the officers through the streets. An armored military vehicle was also seen traveling down the urban roads.

Leadership Statements

In a midweek briefing featuring the rights organization, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, announced that four US citizens were taken by federal agents for about 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be arrested for unjustly." He noted the individuals were let go on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"The goal is evident here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," Goldman stated. "This constitutes a military-style operation to create conflict. It is simply a justification to incite violence for this administration to bring in the troops to prevent violence that they themselves caused."

Broad Criticism

Anger over the immigration operation quickly spread – each of the political contenders denounced the operation, along with NY's governor.

"Once again, the federal government chooses heavy-handed tactics that instill panic, instead of protection. It must stop," one mayoral candidate stated.

The city's advocacy organizations voiced concern too.

"ICE targeted the neighborhood with armored transports, masked agents and tactical gear to focus on street vendors trying to make a living. This operation had nothing to do with community security and was entirely about intimidating residents and communities," said the head of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

ICE policy prohibits the detention of US citizens and the bureau has said it does not arrest or detain American nationals. Nevertheless, independent reporting has found that over 170 American nationals have been held against their will by ICE during the period of the existing leadership.

Current Situation

Immigration operations have been rising in frequency in New York and nationwide this year.

A recent action in central NYC was the earliest reported action on an housing center of the existing leadership. Rallies against ICE are ubiquitous including accusations of violence and inhumane treatment.

Latest, a document filed by advocacy organizations alleged healthcare failures of women with child in ICE facilities.