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New York state attorney general has rolled out a fresh digital platform encouraging residents to submit visual evidence of immigration raids across the state. This step follows a shortly after a significant immigration operation disrupted Chinatown in Manhattan, sparking large-scale protests.

American Citizens Detained During ICE Operation

A US congressman revealed during a midweek briefing that four US citizens were detained and detained for "nearly 24 hours" after the enforcement action. Rallies erupted in the city on consecutive evenings.

"All New York residents is entitled to live without fear," the AG declared in a announcement.

"Anyone who observed and captured immigration enforcement yesterday, I ask you to share that footage with us. We are dedicated to examining these submissions and evaluating any wrongdoings."

Portal Features

The platform provides spaces to upload photos and videos of the operation, along with a section to note where it occurred. Prior to sending, submitters must check a box that states that "the office could utilize any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, such as in a lawsuit or official statement."

Information about the ICE Action

The enforcement action, which observers say involved more than 50 ICE personnel, occurred in a famous neighborhood of NYC where counterfeit purses, items, goods and other goods are regularly available in large quantities – often to visitors.

Videos of Tuesday's raid reveal numerous masked and armed federal agents zip-tying and detaining a man, and forcing aside witnesses. Crowds of New Yorkers trailed the officers along the roads. An armored military vehicle was also seen rolling through the city streets.

Leadership Statements

During a Wednesday press conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, congressman Dan Goldman, a lawmaker, stated that four US citizens were detained by ICE for almost a full day and that there were "no circumstances where US citizens should be arrested for without cause." He said the individuals were freed on Wednesday with no charges filed.

"The goal is evident here. It is not about removing offenders," Goldman remarked. "This constitutes a military-style operation to provoke unrest. It is merely a excuse to incite violence for this administration to bring in the armed forces to prevent unrest that they have created."

Broad Criticism

Anger over the immigration operation quickly spread – every NYC mayor hopefuls denounced the operation, including the state leader.

"Once again, the Trump administration selects heavy-handed tactics that instill panic, not safety. It has to end," a political candidate stated.

NYC advocacy organizations expressed outrage also.

"ICE targeted Chinatown in NYC with tactical trucks, covered personnel and protective equipment to focus on local sellers trying to make a living. This operation had no connection to public safety and was entirely about frightening communities and communities," remarked the president of a major immigrant coalition.

Agency Rules

Official guidelines prohibits the detention of US citizens and the organization has claimed it refrains from take into custody American nationals. Nevertheless, independent reporting has discovered that over 170 US citizens have been detained unlawfully by federal agents since the start of the current administration.

Current Situation

Immigration operations have been cropping up increasingly in the state and across the US recently.

An October operation in central NYC was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the present government. Demonstrations opposing federal operations are widespread as are accusations of force and abusive practices.

Most recently, a document provided by civil rights groups claimed medical neglect of pregnant women in ICE facilities.