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New York state attorney general has introduced a fresh digital platform asking citizens to provide images and footage of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This move comes just a day after a major ICE raid disrupted NYC's Chinatown, prompting mass protests.

American Citizens Held During Raid

A US congressman disclosed during a midweek briefing that four American citizens were detained and detained for "almost a full day" after the enforcement action. Demonstrations erupted in the city on consecutive evenings.

"All New York residents is entitled to exist without intimidation," the attorney general declared in a announcement.

"Anyone who observed and documented federal operations yesterday, I encourage you to submit that evidence with my office. We are pledged to examining these submissions and investigating any violations of law."

Portal Features

The platform offers spaces to send visual evidence of the incident, plus a area to specify location information. Prior to sending, submitters must check a box that acknowledges that "authorities may use any documents, photographs, or videos in a official report, including in a lawsuit or public report."

Details of the ICE Action

The Chinatown raid, which observers say featured dozens of federal agents, occurred in a well-known neighborhood of Manhattan where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and other goods are regularly available en masse – often to visitors.

Recordings of Tuesday's raid reveal numerous covered and weaponized federal agents restraining and arresting a individual, and shoving away bystanders. Masses of residents followed the officers through the streets. An armored military vehicle was noticed moving along the urban roads.

Official Reactions

In a Wednesday press conference featuring the rights organization, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, stated that four nationals were taken by federal agents for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be taken for without cause." He noted the persons were let go on the following day with no legal action taken.

"The goal is evident here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman stated. "This constitutes a militarized effort to incite tension. It is merely a excuse to generate turmoil for the government to utilize the military to prevent violence that they have created."

Broad Criticism

Anger over the ICE raid quickly spread – each of the political contenders criticized the operation, along with Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Once again, the federal government selects oppressive displays that instill panic, instead of protection. It has to end," a contender wrote.

NYC community groups voiced concern also.

"Immigration agents targeted the neighborhood with armored transports, hooded officers and riot gear to target street vendors working to survive. This operation had nothing to do with community security and focused completely on frightening communities and areas," said the head of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

ICE policy bans the arrest of American nationals and the bureau has said it will not arrest or detain American nationals. Nevertheless, independent reporting has revealed that more than 170 American nationals have been detained unlawfully by ICE since the start of the existing leadership.

Current Situation

Immigration operations have been cropping up increasingly in New York and nationwide lately.

An October operation in central NYC was the first known raid on an housing center of the present government. Protests targeting ICE are widespread along with claims of violence and abusive practices.

Latest, a document submitted by legal entities alleged medical neglect of pregnant women in ICE facilities.