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New York state AG has rolled out a new online portal asking locals to provide images and footage of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This action comes just a shortly after a significant enforcement action shook NYC's Chinatown, triggering widespread demonstrations.

American Citizens Arrested In Enforcement Action

A congressional representative announced during a Wednesday press conference that four US citizens were arrested and held for "about 24 hours" following Tuesday's raid. Demonstrations broke out in the city on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Each citizen deserves to live without fear," state officials declared in a announcement.

"For those who saw and captured ICE activity recently, I encourage you to share that evidence with us. We are committed to examining these reports and determining any violations of law."

Form Details

The portal offers options to send visual evidence of the operation, along with a area to indicate geographic details. Before submitting, users must tick a option that confirms that "the attorney general might employ any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, such as in a lawsuit or government document."

Information about the Chinatown Raid

The Manhattan operation, which observers say involved over fifty ICE personnel, happened in a popular area of the city where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and merchandise are commonly traded en masse – frequently to sightseers.

Recordings of the incident reveal several covered and weaponized personnel zip-tying and detaining a individual, and shoving away witnesses. Crowds of locals trailed the agents down the sidewalks. An armored truck was noticed rolling through the city streets.

Political Response

In a Wednesday press conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, the congressman, a lawmaker, stated that four US citizens were arrested by immigration for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no situations where nationals should be detained for without cause." He noted the persons were freed on Wednesday with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," Goldman said. "This is a military-style operation to create conflict. It is purely a justification to provoke conflict for this administration to utilize the armed forces to stop conflict that they have created."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the immigration operation escalated – all three mayoral candidates denounced the raid, as did the state leader.

"Once again, the Trump administration opts for oppressive displays that generate terror, instead of protection. It has to end," a political candidate stated.

NYC community groups voiced concern also.

"ICE raided Manhattan's Chinatown with military-style vehicles, masked agents and riot gear to target local sellers trying to make a living. This raid had no connection to citizen protection and everything to do with intimidating residents and neighborhoods," remarked the president of a rights organization.

Agency Rules

Agency rules forbids the arrest of American nationals and the organization has said it will not take into custody US citizens. Nevertheless, investigative journalism has revealed that more than 170 American nationals have been taken illegally by ICE during the period of the current administration.

Current Situation

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in the state and across the US lately.

A recent action in central NYC was the first known raid on an refuge facility of the current administration. Demonstrations against ICE are ubiquitous as are allegations of force and cruel conditions.

Recently, a submission submitted by advocacy organizations alleged medical neglect of pregnant women in government custody.