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New York state attorney general has rolled out a recent online portal encouraging locals to submit visual evidence of ICE operations throughout the state. This move follows a day after a high-profile ICE raid rattled NYC's Chinatown, triggering mass protests.

American Citizens Arrested During Raid

A US congressman announced during a Wednesday press conference that four citizens were taken into custody and held for "almost a full day" after Tuesday's raid. Protests broke out in New York on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"All New York residents has the right to live without fear," the attorney general declared in a release.

"For those who saw and documented immigration enforcement recently, I encourage you to provide that evidence with the authorities. We are dedicated to examining these submissions and determining any legal breaches."

Portal Features

The portal offers fields to upload images and video footage of the raid, plus a area to note where it occurred. Before submitting, users must tick a box that states that "the attorney general may use any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, such as in a court case or public report."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The Manhattan operation, which observers say featured more than 50 ICE personnel, occurred in a famous district of NYC where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and other goods are commonly traded widely – often to tourists.

Footage of Tuesday's raid reveal numerous hooded and equipped personnel restraining and arresting a man, and pushing back onlookers. Crowds of New Yorkers followed the personnel through the streets. An armored military vehicle was noticed traveling down the urban roads.

Official Reactions

During a news conference featuring the New York immigrant rights coalition, congressman Dan Goldman, a lawmaker, announced that four US citizens were arrested by immigration for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no conditions where US citizens should be arrested for without cause." He clarified the persons were freed on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"The goal is evident here. It is not about removing offenders," he remarked. "This constitutes a military-style operation to provoke unrest. It is purely a excuse to incite violence for the government to bring in the troops to stop violence that they have created."

Extensive Outcry

Anger over the immigration operation quickly spread – each of the political contenders denounced the operation, along with Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Once again, the current administration selects oppressive displays that instill panic, instead of protection. It has to end," a political candidate stated.

The city's community groups voiced concern too.

"Immigration agents targeted Manhattan's Chinatown with military-style vehicles, hooded officers and protective equipment to focus on small merchants trying to make a living. This raid had nothing to do with citizen protection and was entirely about frightening communities and communities," stated the leader of a major immigrant coalition.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines bans the detention of US citizens and the bureau has claimed it refrains from take into custody American nationals. Nevertheless, investigative journalism has discovered that over 170 US citizens have been held against their will by immigration authorities since the start of the current administration.

Recent Pattern

Immigration operations have been becoming more common in New York and around the country lately.

An October operation in midtown Manhattan was the earliest reported action on an immigrant shelter of the present government. Protests opposing federal operations are commonplace including claims of force and inhumane treatment.

Most recently, a submission provided by advocacy organizations claimed inadequate care of women with child in government custody.