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New York state AG has launched a new reporting form encouraging locals to provide photos and videos of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This move comes just a day after a high-profile ICE raid disrupted NYC's Chinatown, triggering mass protests.

American Citizens Detained In Enforcement Action

A congressional representative announced during a news conference that four citizens were arrested and detained for "about 24 hours" after the previous day's operation. Protests erupted in NYC on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Every New Yorker deserves to exist without intimidation," state officials wrote in a release.

"Anyone who observed and captured federal operations yesterday, I ask you to submit that evidence with the authorities. We are committed to reviewing these submissions and evaluating any legal breaches."

Form Details

The form offers options to send photos and videos of the incident, plus a area to indicate geographic details. When submitting, individuals must tick a checkbox that confirms that "authorities could utilize any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, including in a court case or official statement."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The Manhattan operation, which observers say included dozens of federal agents, happened in a well-known district of Manhattan where imitation purses, items, goods and merchandise are regularly available in large quantities – often to sightseers.

Recordings of the incident depict numerous covered and weaponized officers securing and holding a man, and shoving away witnesses. Masses of New Yorkers trailed the agents through the streets. An armored military vehicle was observed traveling down the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

At a Wednesday press conference held with the immigrant advocacy group, the congressman, a lawmaker, stated that four American citizens were taken by federal agents for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no situations where four American citizens should be arrested for unjustly." He noted the citizens were let go on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman said. "This is a military-style operation to incite tension. It is purely a pretext to incite violence for the government to utilize the armed forces to stop violence that they have created."

Extensive Outcry

Anger over the federal action escalated – all three political contenders criticized the raid, including NY's governor.

"Yet again, the Trump administration selects authoritarian theatrics that instill panic, rather than security. It must stop," a contender declared.

NYC community groups expressed outrage too.

"Federal officers descended on the neighborhood with military-style vehicles, hooded officers and riot gear to target local sellers trying to make a living. This action had nothing to do with public safety and was entirely about frightening communities and neighborhoods," remarked the president of a major immigrant coalition.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines bans the holding of citizens and the bureau has claimed it will not apprehend American nationals. However, investigative journalism has found that numerous American nationals have been held against their will by immigration authorities during the period of the existing leadership.

Current Situation

ICE raids have been cropping up increasingly in the state and nationwide lately.

An October operation in the city center was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the present government. Demonstrations against federal operations are ubiquitous including allegations of force and inhumane treatment.

Most recently, a letter submitted by advocacy organizations claimed medical neglect of women with child in ICE facilities.