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New York state AG has introduced a recent digital platform encouraging locals to provide visual evidence of immigration raids across the state. This step comes just a shortly after a major enforcement action disrupted NYC's Chinatown, triggering mass outcry.

US Citizens Arrested In ICE Operation

A lawmaker revealed during a Wednesday press conference that four citizens were detained and detained for "almost a full day" following the enforcement action. Protests broke out in the city on consecutive evenings.

"Every New Yorker deserves to live without fear," the attorney general declared in a statement.

"Anyone who observed and captured immigration enforcement during the raid, I urge you to share that footage with the authorities. We are committed to examining these reports and investigating any violations of law."

Form Details

The platform provides fields to upload photos and videos of the operation, as well as a field to specify where it occurred. Before submitting, individuals must check a option that states that "authorities may use any materials, images, or footage in a official report, including in a legal proceeding or official statement."

Details of the Manhattan Operation

The Manhattan operation, which witnesses say featured over fifty government officers, occurred in a popular area of NYC where imitation products and additional items are commonly traded in large quantities – frequently to sightseers.

Footage of Tuesday's raid depict numerous hooded and equipped officers restraining and arresting a man, and forcing aside witnesses. Throngs of locals followed the agents down the sidewalks. An armored truck was observed rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

In a midweek briefing held with the rights organization, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, said that four American citizens were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no situations where nationals should be taken for without cause." He noted the persons were freed on the following day with no charges filed.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," Goldman stated. "This is a armed campaign to provoke unrest. It is simply a excuse to generate turmoil for this administration to utilize the troops to halt conflict that they themselves caused."

Widespread Condemnation

Fury over the ICE raid rapidly grew – all three mayoral candidates condemned the incident, along with the state leader.

"Once again, the current administration opts for oppressive displays that generate terror, instead of protection. It has to end," one mayoral candidate stated.

NYC community groups spoke out too.

"Immigration agents raided Chinatown in NYC with tactical trucks, hooded officers and riot gear to focus on local sellers attempting to earn income. This operation had no connection to citizen protection and everything to do with terrorizing immigrant families and neighborhoods," said the president of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

ICE policy bans the arrest of American nationals and the organization has stated it does not apprehend US citizens. Yet, external research has revealed that numerous American nationals have been held against their will by federal agents during the period of the existing leadership.

Recent Pattern

ICE raids have been becoming more common in the state and nationwide lately.

An October operation in midtown Manhattan was the first known raid on an immigrant shelter of the current administration. Protests against immigration enforcement are commonplace along with accusations of violence and inhumane treatment.

Latest, a document submitted by advocacy organizations claimed healthcare failures of pregnant women in detention centers.