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New York state attorney general has launched a fresh digital platform asking residents to share photos and videos of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This move follows a day after a high-profile enforcement action shook NYC's Chinatown, triggering large-scale protests.

American Citizens Detained During ICE Operation

A US congressman revealed during a news conference that four US citizens were arrested and held for "nearly 24 hours" following Tuesday's raid. Protests broke out in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Each citizen deserves to exist without intimidation," the AG stated in a statement.

"If you witnessed and documented ICE activity during the raid, I encourage you to submit that evidence with us. We are pledged to examining these reports and determining any violations of law."

Submission Process

The form provides options to upload images and video footage of the operation, plus a section to indicate geographic details. Before submitting, users must mark a option that confirms that "authorities could utilize any documents, photographs, or videos in a legal proceeding, such as in a lawsuit or public report."

Information about the Chinatown Raid

The Chinatown raid, which onlookers say included dozens of ICE personnel, occurred in a well-known area of NYC where counterfeit products and additional items are commonly traded widely – frequently to tourists.

Videos of the operation reveal multiple covered and weaponized personnel zip-tying and detaining a man, and shoving away onlookers. Crowds of locals followed the personnel down the sidewalks. An armored truck was observed rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

At a news conference held with the New York immigrant rights coalition, the congressman, a lawmaker, stated that four US citizens were taken by federal agents for about 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where four American citizens should be arrested for without cause." He clarified the individuals were let go on Wednesday with no charges filed.

"The goal is evident here. It is not about removing offenders," the congressman remarked. "This is a military-style operation to create conflict. It is purely a excuse to incite violence for this administration to bring in the troops to halt violence that they initiated."

Extensive Outcry

Fury over the immigration operation escalated – every political contenders denounced the incident, as did Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Repeatedly, the current administration opts for heavy-handed tactics that create fear, not safety. It needs to cease," one mayoral candidate declared.

NYC immigrant rights groups expressed outrage too.

"ICE targeted Manhattan's Chinatown with tactical trucks, masked agents and riot gear to go after small merchants working to survive. This raid had nothing to do with community security and focused completely on intimidating residents and areas," stated the president of a advocacy group.

Official Guidelines

Agency rules prohibits the detention of US citizens and the bureau has claimed it refrains from apprehend citizens. Nevertheless, investigative journalism has revealed that numerous American nationals have been taken illegally by ICE during the period of the present government.

Current Situation

Immigration operations have been becoming more common in NY and around the country lately.

A recent action in midtown Manhattan was the initial documented operation on an housing center of the current administration. Protests targeting ICE are commonplace along with allegations of force and abusive practices.

Recently, a submission provided by advocacy organizations alleged inadequate care of expectant mothers in government custody.