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New York state AG has introduced a fresh reporting form urging citizens to provide images and footage of ICE operations across the state. This step comes just a shortly after a major ICE raid rattled Manhattan's Chinatown, prompting mass demonstrations.

US Citizens Detained During Enforcement Action

A congressional representative announced during a Wednesday press conference that four US citizens were arrested and kept for "almost a full day" following Tuesday's raid. Demonstrations erupted in the city on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Every New Yorker is entitled to live without fear," state officials wrote in a release.

"If you witnessed and captured ICE activity recently, I encourage you to share that footage with us. We are committed to examining these submissions and evaluating any legal breaches."

Submission Process

The form includes options to send photos and videos of the raid, along with a section to specify location information. Before submitting, users must tick a box that states that "authorities may use any evidence provided in a public document, such as in a lawsuit or official statement."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Manhattan operation, which witnesses say included dozens of federal agents, happened in a well-known area of the city where counterfeit purses, items, goods and merchandise are commonly traded in large quantities – typically to visitors.

Recordings of the operation reveal several masked and armed federal agents securing and holding a person, and pushing back witnesses. Crowds of locals followed the officers down the sidewalks. An armored truck was observed rolling through the city streets.

Political Response

At a news conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democratic representative, stated that four American citizens were taken by federal agents for about 24 hours and that there were "no situations where nationals should be detained for no reason." He said the individuals were let go on the following day with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman stated. "This constitutes a armed campaign to incite tension. It is purely a excuse to incite violence for this administration to bring in the troops to prevent violence that they initiated."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the ICE raid escalated – every mayoral candidates condemned the raid, as did the state leader.

"Once again, the Trump administration opts for authoritarian theatrics that generate terror, instead of protection. It must stop," a contender stated.

NYC community groups expressed outrage as well.

"Federal officers raided Manhattan's Chinatown with tactical trucks, masked agents and protective equipment to target local sellers attempting to earn income. This action had no relation to community security and focused completely on intimidating residents and neighborhoods," remarked the head of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines forbids the holding of citizens and the agency has claimed it does not take into custody citizens. Yet, independent reporting has revealed that over 170 US citizens have been taken illegally by ICE since the start of the current administration.

Recent Pattern

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

A mid-October raid in the city center was the first known raid on an housing center of the present government. Rallies targeting ICE are commonplace along with allegations of aggression and cruel conditions.

Recently, a document provided by advocacy organizations alleged healthcare failures of women with child in government custody.