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The state attorney general has launched a new digital platform asking citizens to share images and footage of ICE operations across New York. This move follows a day after a high-profile ICE raid disrupted Chinatown in Manhattan, triggering widespread outcry.

American Citizens Detained During Enforcement Action

A US congressman announced during a news conference that four US citizens were detained and held for "nearly 24 hours" after the previous day's operation. Rallies occurred in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"All New York residents deserves to live without fear," state officials stated in a release.

"If you witnessed and captured federal operations yesterday, I encourage you to submit that evidence with us. We are committed to assessing these submissions and evaluating any wrongdoings."

Portal Features

The platform includes spaces to send visual evidence of the operation, plus a section to indicate geographic details. When submitting, submitters must check a checkbox that states that "the attorney general may use any materials, images, or footage in a public document, such as in a legal proceeding or official statement."

Details of the ICE Action

The enforcement action, which witnesses say featured more than 50 federal agents, happened in a well-known district of NYC where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are regularly available en masse – typically to sightseers.

Footage of the operation reveal multiple hooded and equipped personnel securing and holding a man, and forcing aside witnesses. Masses of locals pursued the personnel along the roads. An military-style transport was noticed rolling through the city streets.

Official Reactions

During a Wednesday press conference held with the New York immigrant rights coalition, Representative Goldman, a Democratic representative, stated that four American citizens were arrested by immigration for almost a full day and that there were "no circumstances where four American citizens should be taken for no reason." He said the citizens were let go on the following day with no charges filed.

"The goal is evident here. It is not about removing offenders," he said. "This represents a militarized effort to create conflict. It is purely a pretext to incite violence for federal officials to bring in the troops to stop unrest that they themselves caused."

Broad Criticism

Anger over the immigration operation quickly spread – all three mayoral candidates denounced the raid, along with NY's governor.

"Yet again, the current administration chooses heavy-handed tactics that create fear, instead of protection. It has to end," a contender stated.

NYC advocacy organizations voiced concern also.

"Immigration agents targeted Chinatown in NYC with armored transports, masked agents and tactical gear to focus on street vendors trying to make a living. This operation had no relation to community security and was entirely about intimidating residents and neighborhoods," said the president of a rights organization.

Agency Rules

ICE policy forbids the arrest of American nationals and the bureau has stated it refrains from arrest or detain citizens. Yet, independent reporting has revealed that numerous US citizens have been held against their will by immigration authorities since the beginning of the present government.

Recent Pattern

ICE raids have been cropping up increasingly in New York and nationwide this year.

An October operation in the city center was the earliest reported action on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Demonstrations opposing federal operations are commonplace as are claims of force and abusive practices.

Most recently, a submission submitted by advocacy organizations stated medical neglect of pregnant women in government custody.