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New York state attorney general has rolled out a new reporting form asking locals to submit photos and videos of ICE operations across New York. This step follows a shortly after a high-profile enforcement action rattled Manhattan's Chinatown, sparking widespread demonstrations.

American Citizens Arrested In ICE Operation

A lawmaker disclosed during a news conference that four US citizens were taken into custody and held for "nearly 24 hours" following Tuesday's raid. Protests broke out in the city on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"All New York residents has the right to live without fear," state officials wrote in a statement.

"Anyone who observed and recorded immigration enforcement yesterday, I urge you to submit that evidence with us. We are committed to examining these accounts and determining any legal breaches."

Submission Process

The form provides spaces to send photos and videos of the operation, plus a section to indicate location information. Before submitting, individuals must check a checkbox that confirms that "the attorney general might employ any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, such as in a lawsuit or official statement."

Information about the Chinatown Raid

The Manhattan operation, which observers say featured dozens of ICE personnel, occurred in a popular neighborhood of the city where counterfeit products and additional items are sold daily en masse – typically to tourists.

Footage of Tuesday's raid depict multiple masked and armed officers restraining and arresting a person, and forcing aside bystanders. Crowds of residents followed the officers along the roads. An military-style transport was noticed rolling through the city streets.

Political Response

At a news conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a Democrat, said that four US citizens were detained by ICE for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no conditions where US citizens should be taken for no reason." He said the individuals were released on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not about removing offenders," Goldman stated. "This is a military-style operation to incite tension. It is simply a justification to generate turmoil for this administration to bring in the military to stop conflict that they initiated."

Extensive Outcry

Anger over the federal action rapidly grew – each of the political contenders criticized the incident, including the state leader.

"Yet again, the current administration chooses oppressive displays that create fear, not safety. It must stop," one mayoral candidate declared.

NYC advocacy organizations expressed outrage as well.

"Immigration agents raided Chinatown in NYC with tactical trucks, hooded officers and protective equipment to target local sellers trying to make a living. This raid had no relation to citizen protection and focused completely on frightening communities and areas," stated the leader of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

Agency rules prohibits the holding of citizens and the agency has stated it refrains from take into custody citizens. Yet, external research has revealed that numerous citizens have been taken illegally by federal agents since the beginning of the current administration.

Recent Pattern

Immigration operations have been rising in frequency in the state and nationwide this year.

An October operation in midtown Manhattan was the initial documented operation on an immigrant shelter of the current administration. Demonstrations against federal operations are widespread including allegations of aggression and abusive practices.

Recently, a submission filed by civil rights groups alleged inadequate care of expectant mothers in detention centers.