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The state attorney general has rolled out a new online portal encouraging locals to share images and footage of ICE operations around New York. This action comes just a shortly after a significant ICE raid rattled Manhattan's Chinatown, prompting large-scale protests.

US Citizens Arrested In ICE Operation

A lawmaker revealed during a midweek briefing that four US citizens were arrested and held for "nearly 24 hours" after Tuesday's raid. Protests occurred in the city on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"All New York residents deserves to exist without intimidation," the attorney general stated in a announcement.

"If you witnessed and captured immigration enforcement during the raid, I urge you to share that footage with us. We are committed to reviewing these reports and determining any violations of law."

Portal Features

The portal provides spaces to upload visual evidence of the incident, along with a section to indicate geographic details. Prior to sending, users must mark a checkbox that states that "the attorney general might employ any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, such as in a court case or government document."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Chinatown raid, which observers say involved dozens of ICE personnel, occurred in a popular neighborhood of Manhattan where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are commonly traded widely – often to visitors.

Recordings of the incident show several masked and armed federal agents securing and holding a person, and forcing aside bystanders. Masses of residents trailed the agents through the streets. An military-style transport was also seen traveling down the city streets.

Political Response

During a Wednesday press conference featuring the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a Democratic representative, stated that four American citizens were arrested by immigration for almost a full day and that there were "no conditions where four American citizens should be taken for unjustly." He clarified the persons were freed on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," he said. "This represents a military-style operation to create conflict. It is simply a excuse to incite violence for the government to deploy the military to halt conflict that they themselves caused."

Widespread Condemnation

Fury over the ICE raid rapidly grew – all three mayoral candidates denounced the raid, including Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Yet again, the current administration opts for oppressive displays that generate terror, rather than security. It must stop," one mayoral candidate stated.

The city's advocacy organizations expressed outrage as well.

"Immigration agents descended on the neighborhood with armored transports, hooded officers and riot gear to target local sellers trying to make a living. This action had no relation to public safety and focused completely on frightening communities and areas," stated the head of a rights organization.

Agency Rules

ICE policy forbids the detention of US citizens and the organization has stated it refrains from take into custody US citizens. Nevertheless, external research has discovered that over 170 citizens have been taken illegally by ICE since the start of the present government.

Recent Pattern

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

An October operation in midtown Manhattan was the initial documented operation on an immigrant shelter of the existing leadership. Rallies opposing federal operations are ubiquitous including claims of violence and inhumane treatment.

Most recently, a submission filed by civil rights groups claimed healthcare failures of pregnant women in government custody.