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The state AG has rolled out a new reporting form encouraging locals to submit images and footage of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This move follows a day after a major enforcement action disrupted Manhattan's Chinatown, sparking widespread outcry.

American Citizens Held In Enforcement Action

A congressional representative disclosed during a news conference that four American citizens were detained and held for "almost a full day" after the previous day's operation. Demonstrations broke out in NYC on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Each citizen has the right to reside free from terror," state officials stated in a statement.

"If you witnessed and documented federal operations during the raid, I encourage you to share that material with the authorities. We are dedicated to reviewing these submissions and determining any legal breaches."

Submission Process

The portal provides options to upload photos and videos of the operation, plus a field to specify where it occurred. When submitting, individuals must check a checkbox that confirms that "the attorney general may use any materials, images, or footage in a official report, such as in a lawsuit or official statement."

Details of the Manhattan Operation

The Chinatown raid, which observers say featured dozens of government officers, took place in a famous area of Manhattan where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and merchandise are sold daily in large quantities – frequently to sightseers.

Footage of the incident show numerous hooded and equipped officers securing and holding a person, and pushing back bystanders. Masses of locals followed the personnel down the sidewalks. An military-style transport was observed moving along the city streets.

Political Response

During a midweek briefing held with the New York immigrant rights coalition, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democrat, stated that four nationals were arrested by immigration for about 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be arrested for unjustly." He noted the persons were let go on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"The goal is evident here. It is not about removing offenders," he stated. "This is a military-style operation to incite tension. It is merely a justification to generate turmoil for the government to bring in the armed forces to stop violence that they themselves caused."

Widespread Condemnation

Anger over the federal action rapidly grew – every political contenders criticized the incident, including NY's governor.

"Yet again, the Trump administration chooses oppressive displays that create fear, not safety. It has to end," a contender stated.

NYC advocacy organizations expressed outrage as well.

"Federal officers targeted Manhattan's Chinatown with tactical trucks, masked agents and tactical gear to focus on street vendors working to survive. This operation had nothing to do with community security and everything to do with frightening communities and areas," remarked the head of a major immigrant coalition.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines forbids the holding of citizens and the organization has claimed it refrains from apprehend citizens. Nevertheless, external research has revealed that numerous American nationals have been taken illegally by federal agents since the beginning of the existing leadership.

Current Situation

Enforcement actions have been becoming more common in New York and across the US recently.

An October operation in central NYC was the first known raid on an housing center of the current administration. Demonstrations against ICE are ubiquitous along with claims of violence and abusive practices.

Latest, a document provided by advocacy organizations claimed healthcare failures of women with child in ICE facilities.