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The state AG has launched a new digital platform urging locals to share photos and videos of immigration raids throughout the state. This step follows a shortly after a significant ICE raid rattled Chinatown in Manhattan, triggering widespread outcry.

US Citizens Arrested During ICE Operation

A lawmaker announced during a midweek briefing that four US citizens were taken into custody and detained for "almost a full day" after the enforcement action. Rallies broke out in the city on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Each citizen is entitled to exist without intimidation," the AG wrote in a announcement.

"If you witnessed and documented immigration enforcement recently, I encourage you to provide that evidence with the authorities. We are pledged to reviewing these submissions and evaluating any wrongdoings."

Form Details

The platform includes spaces to send visual evidence of the incident, along with a area to indicate geographic details. Prior to sending, users must check a box that confirms that "the office may use any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, including in a legal proceeding or official statement."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The Manhattan operation, which observers say included dozens of government officers, occurred in a popular district of the city where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are sold daily in large quantities – frequently to sightseers.

Footage of the operation reveal numerous masked and armed federal agents restraining and arresting a person, and pushing back onlookers. Throngs of New Yorkers followed the agents along the roads. An armored military vehicle was noticed traveling down the urban roads.

Leadership Statements

During a midweek briefing held with the rights organization, Representative Goldman, a Democrat, announced that four US citizens were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no situations where four American citizens should be taken for no reason." He noted the persons were let go on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not to take criminals off the street," he said. "This constitutes a militarized effort to create conflict. It is purely a excuse to generate turmoil for this administration to utilize the military to halt unrest that they initiated."

Broad Criticism

Fury over the federal action quickly spread – all three mayoral candidates condemned the incident, as did the state leader.

"Yet again, the Trump administration opts for oppressive displays that create fear, instead of protection. It has to end," a political candidate wrote.

NYC community groups spoke out also.

"Federal officers targeted the neighborhood with military-style vehicles, hooded officers and protective equipment to target street vendors trying to make a living. This operation had no relation to citizen protection and everything to do with frightening communities and communities," said the president of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

ICE policy forbids the detention of US citizens and the organization has stated it does not apprehend American nationals. However, external research has found that numerous citizens have been taken illegally by immigration authorities since the beginning of the current administration.

Current Situation

ICE raids have been cropping up increasingly in the state and nationwide this year.

A recent action in the city center was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the current administration. Protests targeting ICE are ubiquitous including accusations of violence and cruel conditions.

Recently, a submission filed by advocacy organizations alleged healthcare failures of pregnant women in government custody.