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New York state AG has rolled out a fresh reporting form asking residents to provide photos and videos of ICE operations around the state. This move follows a day after a major ICE raid disrupted NYC's Chinatown, prompting large-scale protests.

American Citizens Held In Enforcement Action

A congressional representative announced during a news conference that four citizens were detained and kept for "about 24 hours" after the enforcement action. Protests erupted in NYC on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Each citizen is entitled to live without fear," the attorney general stated in a release.

"For those who saw and recorded immigration enforcement yesterday, I encourage you to submit that footage with my office. We are committed to reviewing these reports and evaluating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The platform provides fields to send images and video footage of the raid, along with a area to indicate location information. Before submitting, individuals must tick a checkbox that states that "the office could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a public document, including in a legal proceeding or government document."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The enforcement action, which witnesses say included over fifty ICE personnel, occurred in a famous district of Manhattan where fake purses, items, goods and merchandise are commonly traded en masse – typically to visitors.

Videos of Tuesday's raid show several covered and weaponized personnel securing and holding a individual, and forcing aside bystanders. Masses of residents trailed the officers through the streets. An military-style transport was observed traveling down the urban roads.

Leadership Statements

In a Wednesday press conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, the congressman, a lawmaker, stated that four nationals were detained by ICE for about 24 hours and that there were "no situations where US citizens should be detained for no reason." He noted the citizens were let go on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"The goal is evident here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," the congressman said. "This is a military-style operation to provoke unrest. It is simply a justification to incite violence for this administration to deploy the troops to stop conflict that they initiated."

Widespread Condemnation

Fury over the federal action escalated – all three NYC mayor hopefuls criticized the incident, including NY's governor.

"Once again, the Trump administration opts for oppressive displays that create fear, instead of protection. It needs to cease," one mayoral candidate declared.

The city's immigrant rights groups spoke out as well.

"ICE descended on the neighborhood with armored transports, covered personnel and tactical gear to target small merchants attempting to earn income. This operation had no connection to public safety and everything to do with intimidating residents and neighborhoods," stated the leader of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

Official guidelines bans the detention of US citizens and the organization has stated it will not apprehend American nationals. Yet, external research has found that more than 170 US citizens have been taken illegally by immigration authorities since the beginning of the present government.

Current Situation

Immigration operations have been becoming more common in New York and nationwide recently.

An October operation in midtown Manhattan was the first known raid on an housing center of the current administration. Demonstrations opposing federal operations are ubiquitous as are accusations of aggression and inhumane treatment.

Recently, a letter filed by advocacy organizations claimed inadequate care of women with child in government custody.