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The state AG has launched a fresh reporting form asking citizens to provide visual evidence of ICE operations across New York. This action follows a day after a significant immigration operation shook Chinatown in Manhattan, prompting large-scale outcry.

American Citizens Held During Enforcement Action

A congressional representative disclosed during a Wednesday press conference that four American citizens were arrested and detained for "almost a full day" following the enforcement action. Protests broke out in the city on consecutive evenings.

"All New York residents is entitled to exist without intimidation," state officials stated in a announcement.

"If you witnessed and captured immigration enforcement yesterday, I urge you to share that footage with my office. We are dedicated to examining these submissions and investigating any legal breaches."

Portal Features

The form provides fields to send images and video footage of the operation, plus a section to note where it occurred. Before submitting, individuals must tick a option that acknowledges that "authorities could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a official report, including in a legal proceeding or public report."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Manhattan operation, which observers say included more than 50 federal agents, happened in a well-known area of NYC where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and other goods are regularly available en masse – frequently to tourists.

Footage of the operation depict numerous covered and weaponized officers securing and holding a man, and forcing aside onlookers. Masses of New Yorkers trailed the officers through the streets. An armored truck was also seen rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

In a Wednesday press conference featuring the immigrant advocacy group, the congressman, a Democratic representative, stated that four American citizens were arrested by immigration for almost a full day and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be detained for without cause." He clarified the persons were freed on the following day with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," he said. "This constitutes a militarized effort to provoke unrest. It is simply a justification to incite violence for the government to bring in the military to stop unrest that they themselves caused."

Broad Criticism

Fury over the federal action quickly spread – all three political contenders criticized the incident, along with the state leader.

"Yet again, the federal government opts for heavy-handed tactics that create fear, instead of protection. It needs to cease," a contender wrote.

New York City immigrant rights groups voiced concern as well.

"Immigration agents descended on Chinatown in NYC with tactical trucks, covered personnel and riot gear to focus on small merchants attempting to earn income. This operation had nothing to do with community security and focused completely on frightening communities and areas," said the head of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

ICE policy prohibits the arrest of American nationals and the bureau has said it does not apprehend US citizens. Yet, investigative journalism has found that numerous US citizens have been taken illegally by federal agents since the beginning of the current administration.

Current Situation

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in NY and across the US this year.

An October operation in central NYC was the earliest reported action on an refuge facility of the present government. Protests against ICE are widespread as are accusations of force and inhumane treatment.

Most recently, a letter filed by advocacy organizations stated healthcare failures of pregnant women in ICE facilities.