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New York state attorney general has rolled out a fresh reporting form encouraging citizens to share photos and videos of immigration raids around the state. This step comes just a day after a high-profile enforcement action disrupted Manhattan's Chinatown, prompting mass protests.

American Citizens Arrested In ICE Operation

A lawmaker announced during a Wednesday press conference that four American citizens were taken into custody and kept for "nearly 24 hours" after the enforcement action. Demonstrations broke out in the city on consecutive evenings.

"Every New Yorker is entitled to reside free from terror," the attorney general stated in a statement.

"Anyone who observed and recorded ICE activity recently, I urge you to submit that footage with us. We are dedicated to examining these reports and evaluating any legal breaches."

Form Details

The portal includes fields to upload images and video footage of the operation, along with a section to indicate where it occurred. When submitting, users must check a checkbox that states that "authorities might employ any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, including in a court case or public report."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Manhattan operation, which observers say involved more than 50 ICE personnel, occurred in a famous area of the city where fake products and additional items are regularly available widely – frequently to sightseers.

Videos of the operation show multiple hooded and equipped federal agents zip-tying and detaining a man, and pushing back bystanders. Masses of locals pursued the personnel down the sidewalks. An armored truck was noticed traveling down the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

At a Wednesday press conference organized with the rights organization, congressman Dan Goldman, a lawmaker, stated that four nationals were taken by federal agents for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be detained for without cause." He noted the citizens were released on Wednesday with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman stated. "This represents a military-style operation to create conflict. It is purely a justification to provoke conflict for federal officials to utilize the troops to prevent violence that they initiated."

Broad Criticism

Outrage over the ICE raid rapidly grew – all three mayoral candidates condemned the operation, along with NY's governor.

"Repeatedly, the current administration chooses heavy-handed tactics that instill panic, instead of protection. It needs to cease," a contender declared.

NYC advocacy organizations voiced concern as well.

"Federal officers raided Chinatown in NYC with military-style vehicles, masked agents and tactical gear to target street vendors trying to make a living. This operation had no connection to public safety and was entirely about frightening communities and areas," stated the head of a rights organization.

Agency Rules

ICE policy bans the holding of citizens and the organization has said it refrains from apprehend citizens. Yet, independent reporting has discovered that over 170 citizens have been taken illegally by immigration authorities during the period of the present government.

Current Situation

Immigration operations have been becoming more common in the state and nationwide recently.

A mid-October raid in midtown Manhattan was the first known raid on an refuge facility of the current administration. Protests against ICE are widespread including allegations of violence and cruel conditions.

Recently, a submission provided by advocacy organizations alleged inadequate care of women with child in government custody.