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New York state AG has rolled out a fresh reporting form urging residents to share visual evidence of immigration raids throughout the state. This action follows a shortly after a high-profile enforcement action shook NYC's Chinatown, triggering widespread outcry.

US Citizens Held During Raid

A US congressman revealed during a Wednesday press conference that four citizens were taken into custody and detained for "about 24 hours" following the previous day's operation. Rallies broke out in NYC on consecutive evenings.

"Each citizen is entitled to reside free from terror," the attorney general stated in a statement.

"For those who saw and captured immigration enforcement during the raid, I ask you to provide that evidence with my office. We are committed to assessing these accounts and evaluating any violations of law."

Form Details

The platform provides options to upload images and video footage of the raid, along with a area to note location information. Before submitting, individuals must check a box that confirms that "the office could utilize any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, including in a legal proceeding or public report."

Information about the ICE Action

The Manhattan operation, which onlookers say featured dozens of ICE personnel, occurred in a famous area of the city where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are regularly available in large quantities – typically to visitors.

Footage of Tuesday's raid show several hooded and equipped officers restraining and arresting a person, and pushing back onlookers. Crowds of New Yorkers trailed the officers down the sidewalks. An armored military vehicle was observed rolling through the city streets.

Official Reactions

During a Wednesday press conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, the congressman, a Democratic representative, said that four nationals were detained by ICE for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no situations where nationals should be taken for unjustly." He said the citizens were freed on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not about removing offenders," the congressman stated. "This is a armed campaign to provoke unrest. It is simply a excuse to incite violence for this administration to utilize the armed forces to stop conflict that they initiated."

Broad Criticism

Outrage over the ICE raid quickly spread – every mayoral candidates denounced the incident, as did the state leader.

"Repeatedly, the current administration chooses authoritarian theatrics that create fear, instead of protection. It needs to cease," a contender declared.

NYC community groups spoke out as well.

"Federal officers targeted the neighborhood with military-style vehicles, masked agents and protective equipment to focus on street vendors trying to make a living. This operation had no connection to public safety and was entirely about frightening communities and areas," remarked the leader of a major immigrant coalition.

Agency Rules

Agency rules prohibits the detention of US citizens and the bureau has claimed it does not take into custody citizens. However, investigative journalism has revealed that numerous citizens have been detained unlawfully by immigration authorities since the start of the existing leadership.

Current Situation

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

An October operation in central NYC was the earliest reported action on an refuge facility of the present government. Protests against immigration enforcement are widespread including accusations of force and cruel conditions.

Most recently, a letter submitted by advocacy organizations alleged inadequate care of expectant mothers in detention centers.