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New York state attorney general has introduced a new digital platform encouraging locals to provide images and footage of ICE operations around New York. This move follows a day after a significant immigration operation shook Chinatown in Manhattan, sparking large-scale outcry.

American Citizens Arrested During ICE Operation

A lawmaker announced during a news conference that four American citizens were detained and held for "almost a full day" following Tuesday's raid. Rallies erupted in New York on consecutive evenings.

"All New York residents has the right to live without fear," the attorney general wrote in a announcement.

"For those who saw and documented ICE activity recently, I ask you to submit that evidence with the authorities. We are dedicated to assessing these submissions and evaluating any violations of law."

Portal Features

The platform includes options to upload images and video footage of the incident, plus a field to indicate location information. Prior to sending, users must mark a option that confirms that "the attorney general may use any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, such as in a lawsuit or public report."

Information about the ICE Action

The Manhattan operation, which onlookers say involved dozens of government officers, occurred in a well-known district of Manhattan where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are regularly available widely – often to tourists.

Footage of Tuesday's raid show multiple masked and armed personnel zip-tying and detaining a person, and forcing aside bystanders. Masses of New Yorkers trailed the personnel down the sidewalks. An military-style transport was also seen traveling down the city streets.

Political Response

At a Wednesday press conference featuring the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a Democrat, said that four US citizens were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no circumstances where US citizens should be arrested for unjustly." He noted the individuals were let go on Wednesday with no charges filed.

"The goal is evident here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," he said. "This constitutes a armed campaign to create conflict. It is simply a excuse to provoke conflict for federal officials to utilize the military to prevent conflict that they have created."

Extensive Outcry

Anger over the federal action quickly spread – all three political contenders criticized the operation, as did NY's governor.

"Once again, the federal government selects heavy-handed tactics that generate terror, rather than security. It must stop," a contender stated.

The city's advocacy organizations voiced concern too.

"ICE descended on Chinatown in NYC with armored transports, hooded officers and protective equipment to target local sellers attempting to earn income. This raid had nothing to do with public safety and was entirely about terrorizing immigrant families and neighborhoods," said the head of a major immigrant coalition.

ICE Policies

ICE policy bans the arrest of American nationals and the organization has stated it does not arrest or detain US citizens. However, external research has revealed that over 170 American nationals have been detained unlawfully by federal agents since the beginning of the present government.

Current Situation

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

A mid-October raid in midtown Manhattan was the earliest reported action on an housing center of the present government. Demonstrations opposing immigration enforcement are widespread along with claims of aggression and abusive practices.

Most recently, a letter filed by legal entities claimed inadequate care of expectant mothers in detention centers.