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New York state AG has launched a recent digital platform asking citizens to provide photos and videos of federal immigration enforcement around New York. This move comes just a day after a major immigration operation shook Chinatown in Manhattan, sparking mass demonstrations.

US Citizens Detained During ICE Operation

A lawmaker announced during a Wednesday press conference that four American citizens were arrested and detained for "about 24 hours" after Tuesday's raid. Protests broke out in the city on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Every New Yorker is entitled to live without fear," the attorney general stated in a statement.

"For those who saw and documented immigration enforcement recently, I urge you to submit that footage with us. We are dedicated to examining these submissions and investigating any violations of law."

Form Details

The form includes fields to upload images and video footage of the raid, along with a section to note where it occurred. Prior to sending, individuals must check a option that states that "the office could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a official report, including in a legal proceeding or public report."

Details of the ICE Action

The enforcement action, which witnesses say involved dozens of federal agents, happened in a well-known district of the city where fake purses, items, goods and other goods are sold daily en masse – often to tourists.

Footage of the operation reveal several hooded and equipped federal agents restraining and arresting a individual, and forcing aside witnesses. Crowds of New Yorkers followed the officers through the streets. An armored truck was noticed rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

During a midweek briefing featuring the rights organization, congressman Dan Goldman, a lawmaker, said that four American citizens were arrested by immigration for about 24 hours and that there were "no situations where US citizens should be detained for no reason." He said the persons were let go on the following day with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," Goldman remarked. "This represents a military-style operation to provoke unrest. It is merely a pretext to provoke conflict for the government to deploy the military to halt conflict that they themselves caused."

Extensive Outcry

Fury over the immigration operation quickly spread – every political contenders criticized the operation, including NY's governor.

"Repeatedly, the federal government chooses oppressive displays that instill panic, instead of protection. It has to end," a contender wrote.

NYC advocacy organizations expressed outrage as well.

"Federal officers descended on Manhattan's Chinatown with military-style vehicles, covered personnel and tactical gear to focus on street vendors working to survive. This raid had no connection to citizen protection and focused completely on frightening communities and areas," stated the head of a rights organization.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines bans the detention of US citizens and the organization has claimed it refrains from take into custody citizens. Yet, external research has revealed that numerous citizens have been held against their will by immigration authorities since the start of the existing leadership.

Recent Pattern

Immigration operations have been becoming more common in New York and across the US this year.

A mid-October raid in central NYC was the initial documented operation on an housing center of the existing leadership. Protests opposing federal operations are widespread along with accusations of aggression and inhumane treatment.

Latest, a letter submitted by advocacy organizations stated inadequate care of women with child in government custody.