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New York state attorney general has launched a new reporting form encouraging residents to share photos and videos of ICE operations across the state. This move comes just a shortly after a high-profile enforcement action shook Manhattan's Chinatown, sparking widespread demonstrations.

American Citizens Arrested In ICE Operation

A congressional representative announced during a midweek briefing that four American citizens were taken into custody and kept for "almost a full day" after the previous day's operation. Demonstrations occurred in New York on consecutive evenings.

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

"Anyone who observed and recorded immigration enforcement recently, I encourage you to submit that evidence with the authorities. We are dedicated to examining these reports and determining any wrongdoings."

Portal Features

The form includes fields to upload photos and videos of the operation, along with a field to indicate location information. When submitting, submitters must check a box that confirms that "the office could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a legal proceeding, such as in a legal proceeding or public report."

Details of the ICE Action

The Manhattan operation, which witnesses say involved dozens of ICE personnel, took place in a well-known area of Manhattan where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and merchandise are sold daily in large quantities – typically to visitors.

Videos of the operation reveal numerous masked and armed federal agents restraining and arresting a individual, and shoving away onlookers. Crowds of locals pursued the agents through the streets. An armored military vehicle was observed moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Leadership Statements

In a news conference featuring the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a Democratic representative, said that four American citizens were taken by federal agents for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no situations where nationals should be detained for unjustly." He noted the individuals were released on the following day with no legal action taken.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," the congressman stated. "This is a militarized effort to incite tension. It is simply a excuse to incite violence for federal officials to utilize the troops to stop violence that they have created."

Widespread Condemnation

Fury over the federal action escalated – all three mayoral candidates criticized the incident, including NY's governor.

"Once again, the federal government opts for oppressive displays that instill panic, instead of protection. It must stop," a political candidate stated.

NYC community groups spoke out too.

"ICE raided the neighborhood with tactical trucks, masked agents and tactical gear to target street vendors attempting to earn income. This raid had no relation to public safety and everything to do with intimidating residents and communities," remarked the head of a rights organization.

Agency Rules

Official guidelines prohibits the detention of US citizens and the organization has said it does not apprehend citizens. Nevertheless, investigative journalism has revealed that over 170 US citizens have been detained unlawfully by ICE since the beginning of the present government.

Current Situation

ICE raids have been rising in frequency in NY and around the country recently.

A mid-October raid in central NYC was the first known raid on an immigrant shelter of the existing leadership. Demonstrations targeting immigration enforcement are commonplace as are accusations of violence and inhumane treatment.

Latest, a document provided by advocacy organizations claimed healthcare failures of expectant mothers in ICE facilities.