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New York state attorney general has introduced a new reporting form urging residents to share photos and videos of immigration raids throughout the state. This action comes just a shortly after a major ICE raid shook NYC's Chinatown, sparking mass outcry.

American Citizens Arrested In Enforcement Action

A congressional representative disclosed during a Wednesday press conference that four citizens were taken into custody and held for "about 24 hours" following Tuesday's raid. Protests erupted in NYC on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Every New Yorker is entitled to exist without intimidation," the AG declared in a statement.

"If you witnessed and captured federal operations yesterday, I ask you to provide that material with the authorities. We are committed to reviewing these accounts and evaluating any legal breaches."

Form Details

The portal provides spaces to send visual evidence of the raid, along with a field to indicate where it occurred. Prior to sending, users must tick a checkbox that states that "the office might employ any documents, photographs, or videos in a official report, including in a court case or public report."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The Chinatown raid, which onlookers say featured dozens of ICE personnel, occurred in a popular neighborhood of the city where fake purses, items, goods and other goods are commonly traded in large quantities – typically to sightseers.

Videos of the incident show multiple hooded and equipped officers restraining and arresting a person, and forcing aside onlookers. Masses of locals pursued the agents down the sidewalks. An armored truck was also seen traveling down the urban roads.

Leadership Statements

During a news conference featuring the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a Democratic representative, stated that four American citizens were arrested by immigration for about 24 hours and that there were "no situations where nationals should be detained for no reason." He clarified the citizens were freed on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman stated. "This represents a military-style operation to create conflict. It is merely a excuse to generate turmoil for this administration to bring in the troops to stop violence that they initiated."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the federal action rapidly grew – every mayoral candidates condemned the operation, including the state leader.

"Once again, the Trump administration chooses oppressive displays that generate terror, not safety. It must stop," a political candidate declared.

New York City community groups spoke out also.

"ICE targeted Chinatown in NYC with military-style vehicles, masked agents and protective equipment to target small merchants working to survive. This action had no connection to community security and was entirely about frightening communities and neighborhoods," stated the leader of a major immigrant coalition.

ICE Policies

ICE policy prohibits the holding of citizens and the agency has said it will not take into custody US citizens. Yet, investigative journalism has revealed that over 170 US citizens have been held against their will by immigration authorities since the beginning of the current administration.

Current Situation

ICE raids have been cropping up increasingly in New York and nationwide this year.

An October operation in midtown Manhattan was the earliest reported action on an immigrant shelter of the current administration. Protests targeting ICE are ubiquitous including allegations of violence and abusive practices.

Latest, a letter filed by advocacy organizations claimed healthcare failures of women with child in ICE facilities.