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New York state AG has rolled out a fresh reporting form urging locals to share images and footage of immigration raids across the state. This move comes just a day after a high-profile ICE raid rattled NYC's Chinatown, sparking mass outcry.

American Citizens Arrested During Enforcement Action

A congressional representative disclosed during a Wednesday press conference that four US citizens were detained and held for "nearly 24 hours" following the previous day's operation. Rallies broke out in NYC on consecutive evenings.

"Every New Yorker deserves to exist without intimidation," the attorney general wrote in a release.

"For those who saw and recorded immigration enforcement recently, I urge you to share that evidence with the authorities. We are pledged to reviewing these submissions and investigating any wrongdoings."

Portal Features

The form offers fields to upload photos and videos of the incident, along with a area to specify location information. Prior to sending, submitters must mark a box that acknowledges that "the attorney general might employ any materials, images, or footage in a legal proceeding, including in a court case or official statement."

Information about the ICE Action

The Manhattan operation, which onlookers say involved over fifty ICE personnel, took place in a popular area of Manhattan where fake products and other goods are commonly traded in large quantities – typically to sightseers.

Footage of Tuesday's raid depict multiple masked and armed federal agents zip-tying and detaining a man, and pushing back witnesses. Masses of locals followed the officers through the streets. An armored truck was also seen rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

During a Wednesday press conference organized with the New York immigrant rights coalition, Representative Goldman, a Democratic representative, announced that four American citizens were detained by ICE for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no situations where four American citizens should be detained for without cause." He clarified the individuals were released on the following day with no legal action taken.

"The goal is evident here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," the congressman stated. "This is a armed campaign to incite tension. It is merely a pretext to provoke conflict for this administration to utilize the armed forces to stop unrest that they initiated."

Widespread Condemnation

Anger over the federal action quickly spread – all three political contenders condemned the operation, including NY's governor.

"Repeatedly, the federal government selects authoritarian theatrics that create fear, instead of protection. It has to end," one mayoral candidate stated.

NYC community groups spoke out too.

"Immigration agents descended on Manhattan's Chinatown with armored transports, masked agents and riot gear to target local sellers attempting to earn income. This action had nothing to do with citizen protection and everything to do with intimidating residents and communities," stated the head of a rights organization.

Agency Rules

ICE policy forbids the arrest of American nationals and the agency has stated it does not arrest or detain citizens. Nevertheless, external research has found that over 170 citizens have been taken illegally by federal agents during the period of the existing leadership.

Ongoing Trend

Immigration operations have been rising in frequency in New York and nationwide this year.

A recent action in central NYC was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Demonstrations opposing ICE are commonplace including accusations of violence and abusive practices.

Latest, a letter filed by legal entities stated inadequate care of pregnant women in detention centers.