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New York state attorney general has rolled out a fresh online portal asking residents to submit visual evidence of immigration raids across New York. This action comes just a shortly after a major immigration operation rattled Chinatown in Manhattan, triggering large-scale demonstrations.

American Citizens Detained During Raid

A congressional representative disclosed during a news conference that four American citizens were taken into custody and detained for "almost a full day" after Tuesday's raid. Rallies erupted in NYC on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"All New York residents is entitled to reside free from terror," the attorney general declared in a release.

"For those who saw and recorded ICE activity yesterday, I urge you to share that footage with my office. We are dedicated to reviewing these reports and investigating any legal breaches."

Form Details

The form includes spaces to send photos and videos of the raid, along with a section to indicate location information. Prior to sending, users must mark a box that states that "authorities might employ any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, such as in a lawsuit or official statement."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The Chinatown raid, which observers say involved more than 50 ICE personnel, occurred in a well-known area of Manhattan where counterfeit handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are regularly available in large quantities – often to sightseers.

Footage of Tuesday's raid show multiple masked and armed officers restraining and arresting a man, and forcing aside bystanders. Masses of locals pursued the personnel along the roads. An military-style transport was noticed traveling down the urban roads.

Political Response

In a news conference featuring the immigrant advocacy group, congressman Dan Goldman, a lawmaker, announced that four American citizens were arrested by immigration for almost a full day and that there were "no conditions where four American citizens should be taken for no reason." He clarified the persons were released on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"The goal is evident here. It is not about removing offenders," the congressman stated. "This constitutes a military-style operation to incite tension. It is merely a excuse to generate turmoil for federal officials to bring in the military to stop unrest that they themselves caused."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the immigration operation escalated – every mayoral candidates condemned the raid, along with NY's governor.

"Yet again, the Trump administration opts for heavy-handed tactics that instill panic, not safety. It needs to cease," a contender wrote.

NYC community groups voiced concern too.

"ICE raided Chinatown in NYC with armored transports, hooded officers and tactical gear to go after local sellers trying to make a living. This raid had no relation to public safety and focused completely on terrorizing immigrant families and communities," remarked the president of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

ICE policy forbids the holding of citizens and the bureau has said it does not arrest or detain American nationals. Nevertheless, external research has found that more than 170 citizens have been held against their will by ICE since the beginning of the present government.

Current Situation

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in New York and around the country this year.

A recent action in central NYC was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Demonstrations against immigration enforcement are commonplace as are accusations of aggression and abusive practices.

Latest, a submission provided by legal entities claimed medical neglect of women with child in ICE facilities.