🔗 Share this article

New York state AG has launched a new online portal urging residents to share images and footage of immigration raids across New York. This action comes just a day after a major immigration operation rattled NYC's Chinatown, sparking large-scale outcry.

American Citizens Held During ICE Operation

A lawmaker announced during a Wednesday press conference that four US citizens were detained and held for "nearly 24 hours" after the enforcement action. Demonstrations broke out in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Each citizen is entitled to live without fear," state officials stated in a release.

"For those who saw and recorded ICE activity recently, I encourage you to share that footage with the authorities. We are pledged to examining these reports and investigating any legal breaches."

Form Details

The portal provides fields to submit images and video footage of the operation, as well as a area to specify geographic details. Prior to sending, individuals must tick a option that confirms that "the office may use any documents, photographs, or videos in a legal proceeding, including in a court case or government document."

Details of the ICE Action

The enforcement action, which onlookers say involved dozens of government officers, happened in a famous district of Manhattan where counterfeit handbags, accessories, jewelry and other goods are commonly traded in large quantities – often to visitors.

Footage of the operation reveal numerous hooded and equipped personnel restraining and arresting a individual, and forcing aside onlookers. Masses of residents trailed the agents down the sidewalks. An armored truck was observed rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Leadership Statements

During a news conference organized with the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a Democratic representative, announced that four nationals were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no circumstances where four American citizens should be detained for without cause." He clarified the persons were let go on the following day with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," Goldman remarked. "This represents a militarized effort to incite tension. It is purely a justification to generate turmoil for the government to bring in the military to prevent conflict that they have created."

Extensive Outcry

Fury over the federal action escalated – all three mayoral candidates denounced the operation, including NY's governor.

"Yet again, the Trump administration chooses heavy-handed tactics that instill panic, rather than security. It needs to cease," a political candidate stated.

The city's community groups expressed outrage also.

"Federal officers descended on the neighborhood with military-style vehicles, covered personnel and protective equipment to focus on street vendors attempting to earn income. This action had no connection to public safety and was entirely about frightening communities and communities," said the leader of a advocacy group.

Official Guidelines

Agency rules prohibits the detention of US citizens and the organization has claimed it will not arrest or detain US citizens. However, independent reporting has revealed that over 170 citizens have been held against their will by federal agents since the beginning of the existing leadership.

Current Situation

ICE raids have been cropping up increasingly in NY and around the country lately.

An October operation in central NYC was the first known raid on an immigrant shelter of the current administration. Protests against ICE are commonplace including allegations of violence and inhumane treatment.

Most recently, a document provided by legal entities alleged inadequate care of women with child in government custody.