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New York state attorney general has rolled out a fresh reporting form urging residents to share photos and videos of federal immigration enforcement across New York. This move follows a day after a significant immigration operation rattled Manhattan's Chinatown, prompting mass demonstrations.

American Citizens Arrested In ICE Operation

A US congressman disclosed during a Wednesday press conference that four citizens were detained and kept for "about 24 hours" after the enforcement action. Rallies broke out in the city on consecutive evenings.

"Each citizen deserves to live without fear," state officials wrote in a announcement.

"If you witnessed and captured federal operations during the raid, I encourage you to share that evidence with the authorities. We are dedicated to examining these submissions and evaluating any violations of law."

Submission Process

The form provides fields to upload visual evidence of the raid, along with a field to specify where it occurred. Prior to sending, individuals must tick a box that states that "authorities might employ any evidence provided in a official report, such as in a lawsuit or public report."

Details of the Manhattan Operation

The Chinatown raid, which observers say included dozens of ICE personnel, occurred in a well-known area of the city where imitation handbags, accessories, jewelry and other goods are regularly available in large quantities – typically to visitors.

Footage of the operation show several hooded and equipped officers restraining and arresting a person, and pushing back onlookers. Throngs of New Yorkers pursued the personnel down the sidewalks. An military-style transport was also seen moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Leadership Statements

In a news conference organized with the rights organization, the congressman, a Democrat, said that four American citizens were taken by federal agents for about 24 hours and that there were "no situations where nationals should be detained for no reason." He noted the individuals were freed on the following day with no accusations made.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not about removing offenders," Goldman stated. "This constitutes a armed campaign to incite tension. It is merely a excuse to incite violence for federal officials to deploy the troops to prevent conflict that they themselves caused."

Widespread Condemnation

Fury over the federal action escalated – all three political contenders condemned the operation, along with NY's governor.

"Repeatedly, the federal government selects authoritarian theatrics that instill panic, not safety. It has to end," a political candidate stated.

NYC immigrant rights groups voiced concern too.

"ICE descended on Manhattan's Chinatown with armored transports, hooded officers and tactical gear to focus on street vendors working to survive. This operation had no connection to citizen protection and focused completely on intimidating residents and neighborhoods," stated the leader of a advocacy group.

Official Guidelines

Agency rules forbids the holding of citizens and the bureau has said it will not arrest or detain citizens. However, investigative journalism has discovered that over 170 citizens have been detained unlawfully by federal agents during the period of the existing leadership.

Current Situation

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in NY and across the US lately.

An October operation in central NYC was the earliest reported action on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Rallies targeting immigration enforcement are widespread including accusations of violence and cruel conditions.

Latest, a letter submitted by advocacy organizations claimed healthcare failures of expectant mothers in detention centers.