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New York state AG has introduced a new reporting form urging residents to provide photos and videos of ICE operations around the state. This move follows a shortly after a significant immigration operation disrupted NYC's Chinatown, triggering large-scale protests.

US Citizens Arrested In Raid

A congressional representative disclosed during a news conference that four citizens were arrested and kept for "nearly 24 hours" following the previous day's operation. Demonstrations occurred in New York on consecutive evenings.

"Each citizen has the right to live without fear," the AG declared in a release.

"Anyone who observed and documented ICE activity yesterday, I encourage you to provide that evidence with us. We are committed to reviewing these submissions and determining any violations of law."

Portal Features

The form offers options to send images and video footage of the operation, as well as a field to specify where it occurred. When submitting, submitters must tick a checkbox that states that "the attorney general could utilize any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, such as in a legal proceeding or public report."

Information about the ICE Action

The Manhattan operation, which onlookers say involved over fifty ICE personnel, took place in a famous district of Manhattan where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and other goods are commonly traded in large quantities – often to visitors.

Footage of the operation depict numerous hooded and equipped personnel zip-tying and detaining a man, and forcing aside witnesses. Masses of New Yorkers trailed the agents down the sidewalks. An armored military vehicle was noticed moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

In a Wednesday press conference held with the rights organization, the congressman, a lawmaker, stated that four American citizens were detained by ICE for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no conditions where US citizens should be detained for without cause." He clarified the individuals were freed on the following day with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not about removing offenders," he stated. "This is a armed campaign to provoke unrest. It is purely a justification to incite violence for this administration to utilize the troops to halt unrest that they initiated."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the immigration operation rapidly grew – each of the NYC mayor hopefuls denounced the operation, including Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Once again, the current administration selects authoritarian theatrics that generate terror, not safety. It needs to cease," a political candidate wrote.

The city's community groups spoke out too.

"Federal officers raided Manhattan's Chinatown with armored transports, hooded officers and riot gear to target street vendors attempting to earn income. This action had no connection to citizen protection and was entirely about terrorizing immigrant families and areas," said the leader of a major immigrant coalition.

Agency Rules

Official guidelines forbids the detention of US citizens and the agency has claimed it will not take into custody US citizens. Yet, external research has discovered that numerous American nationals have been taken illegally by immigration authorities since the start of the current administration.

Current Situation

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in the state and across the US this year.

A mid-October raid in central NYC was the earliest reported action on an refuge facility of the current administration. Rallies opposing federal operations are widespread including allegations of violence and cruel conditions.

Most recently, a letter provided by legal entities claimed healthcare failures of expectant mothers in government custody.