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New York state AG has rolled out a fresh online portal encouraging citizens to submit images and footage of federal immigration enforcement across the state. This move follows a shortly after a significant immigration operation shook Manhattan's Chinatown, triggering mass demonstrations.

US Citizens Detained During ICE Operation

A US congressman announced during a Wednesday press conference that four American citizens were detained and kept for "about 24 hours" after Tuesday's raid. Protests occurred in the city on consecutive evenings.

"All New York residents has the right to exist without intimidation," state officials wrote in a announcement.

"For those who saw and documented federal operations recently, I ask you to submit that material with the authorities. We are committed to assessing these accounts and evaluating any violations of law."

Portal Features

The portal includes fields to submit photos and videos of the incident, plus a field to indicate geographic details. Prior to sending, individuals must tick a checkbox that states that "the attorney general may use any materials, images, or footage in a public document, including in a court case or government document."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Manhattan operation, which onlookers say included dozens of government officers, occurred in a popular neighborhood of Manhattan where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are commonly traded in large quantities – typically to visitors.

Videos of the incident depict numerous covered and weaponized federal agents zip-tying and detaining a man, and pushing back onlookers. Crowds of residents trailed the agents along the roads. An armored truck was also seen rolling through the urban roads.

Political Response

In a news conference held with the immigrant advocacy group, the congressman, a Democratic representative, announced that four American citizens were detained by ICE for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be taken for no reason." He said the citizens were let go on Wednesday with no charges filed.

"The goal is evident here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman stated. "This is a armed campaign to incite tension. It is merely a pretext to provoke conflict for the government to deploy the troops to halt conflict that they have created."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the ICE raid escalated – every mayoral candidates criticized the operation, including the state leader.

"Repeatedly, the current administration opts for authoritarian theatrics that generate terror, not safety. It needs to cease," a political candidate stated.

NYC advocacy organizations expressed outrage also.

"ICE raided Chinatown in NYC with military-style vehicles, covered personnel and riot gear to target local sellers trying to make a living. This operation had nothing to do with citizen protection and was entirely about intimidating residents and areas," stated the head of a major immigrant coalition.

Official Guidelines

ICE policy bans the holding of citizens and the organization has claimed it will not arrest or detain American nationals. However, independent reporting has discovered that more than 170 American nationals have been held against their will by ICE since the beginning of the present government.

Ongoing Trend

Immigration operations have been cropping up increasingly in the state and across the US recently.

An October operation in central NYC was the initial documented operation on an housing center of the current administration. Protests against immigration enforcement are ubiquitous including allegations of force and inhumane treatment.

Most recently, a letter filed by advocacy organizations stated medical neglect of expectant mothers in detention centers.