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New York state attorney general has rolled out a new digital platform urging residents to submit photos and videos of federal immigration enforcement throughout New York. This action follows a shortly after a major ICE raid disrupted Manhattan's Chinatown, prompting large-scale protests.

US Citizens Held In Raid

A congressional representative disclosed during a midweek briefing that four citizens were detained and detained for "nearly 24 hours" following the enforcement action. Demonstrations broke out in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"All New York residents has the right to exist without intimidation," state officials stated in a release.

"If you witnessed and captured ICE activity during the raid, I ask you to share that footage with us. We are committed to assessing these reports and investigating any violations of law."

Submission Process

The form includes spaces to upload images and video footage of the raid, as well as a area to specify location information. Before submitting, users must check a option that states that "authorities could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a legal proceeding, such as in a legal proceeding or official statement."

Information about the ICE Action

The Manhattan operation, which witnesses say included over fifty government officers, took place in a well-known neighborhood of the city where fake products and additional items are regularly available en masse – often to visitors.

Videos of the operation show numerous hooded and equipped officers securing and holding a person, and shoving away onlookers. Throngs of residents pursued the personnel down the sidewalks. An armored military vehicle was observed moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

In a news conference held with the New York immigrant rights coalition, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, announced that four nationals were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no situations where US citizens should be taken for unjustly." He said the citizens were released on the following day with no accusations made.

"The goal is evident here. It is not to take criminals off the street," Goldman remarked. "This constitutes a militarized effort to provoke unrest. It is merely a excuse to incite violence for federal officials to utilize the armed forces to stop unrest that they themselves caused."

Widespread Condemnation

Outrage over the immigration operation quickly spread – each of the mayoral candidates denounced the operation, including Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Once again, the federal government opts for heavy-handed tactics that instill panic, instead of protection. It must stop," one mayoral candidate stated.

New York City advocacy organizations spoke out also.

"Immigration agents raided Manhattan's Chinatown with military-style vehicles, masked agents and protective equipment to go after local sellers attempting to earn income. This raid had nothing to do with public safety and focused completely on terrorizing immigrant families and areas," remarked the president of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

Agency rules prohibits the detention of US citizens and the bureau has said it does not apprehend US citizens. Yet, external research has found that more than 170 American nationals have been detained unlawfully by immigration authorities during the period of the present government.

Current Situation

Immigration operations have been rising in frequency in the state and around the country this year.

A recent action in central NYC was the first known raid on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Rallies against ICE are commonplace as are allegations of force and abusive practices.

Latest, a letter submitted by civil rights groups stated medical neglect of expectant mothers in government custody.