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New York state AG has rolled out a new reporting form urging residents to submit visual evidence of federal immigration enforcement around New York. This action follows a shortly after a high-profile ICE raid rattled NYC's Chinatown, sparking mass demonstrations.

US Citizens Held During Raid

A lawmaker announced during a Wednesday press conference that four citizens were taken into custody and kept for "about 24 hours" following the enforcement action. Protests erupted in New York on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Each citizen has the right to reside free from terror," the AG stated in a announcement.

"For those who saw and captured immigration enforcement during the raid, I encourage you to submit that footage with us. We are pledged to reviewing these accounts and evaluating any legal breaches."

Submission Process

The portal offers fields to submit visual evidence of the operation, plus a section to indicate geographic details. Prior to sending, submitters must mark a checkbox that acknowledges that "the office could utilize any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, such as in a legal proceeding or public report."

Details of the ICE Action

The enforcement action, which witnesses say involved dozens of ICE personnel, happened in a famous district of Manhattan where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are commonly traded widely – often to tourists.

Videos of the operation depict numerous masked and armed federal agents securing and holding a man, and forcing aside onlookers. Masses of residents pursued the personnel through the streets. An armored truck was noticed rolling through the city streets.

Official Reactions

During a Wednesday press conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, the congressman, a lawmaker, said that four US citizens were taken by federal agents for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no situations where US citizens should be arrested for no reason." He said the citizens were released on the following day with no charges filed.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not about removing offenders," he said. "This constitutes a military-style operation to incite tension. It is simply a justification to generate turmoil for the government to bring in the military to prevent unrest that they initiated."

Extensive Outcry

Fury over the ICE raid rapidly grew – each of the political contenders denounced the incident, as did NY's governor.

"Once again, the current administration chooses oppressive displays that generate terror, instead of protection. It needs to cease," a political candidate wrote.

New York City immigrant rights groups spoke out too.

"ICE raided the neighborhood with military-style vehicles, covered personnel and tactical gear to focus on small merchants attempting to earn income. This raid had no connection to public safety and focused completely on intimidating residents and areas," remarked the head of a major immigrant coalition.

ICE Policies

Agency rules bans the detention of US citizens and the bureau has claimed it refrains from arrest or detain American nationals. However, independent reporting has discovered that numerous US citizens have been held against their will by immigration authorities since the beginning of the current administration.

Ongoing Trend

Enforcement actions have been becoming more common in the state and around the country lately.

A recent action in central NYC was the initial documented operation on an housing center of the existing leadership. Rallies targeting federal operations are commonplace as are allegations of force and inhumane treatment.

Recently, a document provided by legal entities stated inadequate care of expectant mothers in ICE facilities.