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The state AG has introduced a fresh reporting form encouraging residents to share photos and videos of federal immigration enforcement throughout the state. This move comes just a day after a significant ICE raid shook Manhattan's Chinatown, triggering widespread outcry.

US Citizens Held In Raid

A US congressman announced during a midweek briefing that four American citizens were arrested and held for "about 24 hours" after the previous day's operation. Rallies occurred in New York on consecutive evenings.

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

"If you witnessed and captured ICE activity yesterday, I encourage you to provide that evidence with the authorities. We are committed to reviewing these submissions and investigating any wrongdoings."

Portal Features

The form includes options to send visual evidence of the incident, as well as a section to note where it occurred. Before submitting, submitters must check a box that acknowledges that "the attorney general may use any materials, images, or footage in a public document, such as in a legal proceeding or government document."

Details of the Manhattan Operation

The Manhattan operation, which observers say included dozens of federal agents, took place in a well-known neighborhood of Manhattan where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and other goods are regularly available widely – frequently to visitors.

Recordings of the operation show numerous hooded and equipped officers securing and holding a person, and shoving away witnesses. Crowds of residents followed the personnel along the roads. An military-style transport was observed moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

At a news conference held with the rights organization, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, said that four US citizens were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be detained for no reason." He noted the persons were let go on the following day with no charges filed.

"The goal is evident here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," the congressman stated. "This constitutes a armed campaign to incite tension. It is purely a excuse to generate turmoil for the government to utilize the armed forces to prevent unrest that they initiated."

Widespread Condemnation

Fury over the ICE raid rapidly grew – all three NYC mayor hopefuls criticized the raid, including Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Yet again, the current administration selects authoritarian theatrics that instill panic, not safety. It has to end," one mayoral candidate declared.

New York City immigrant rights groups expressed outrage as well.

"Federal officers targeted the neighborhood with military-style vehicles, covered personnel and protective equipment to go after small merchants trying to make a living. This operation had no relation to public safety and focused completely on intimidating residents and neighborhoods," stated the leader of a major immigrant coalition.

Official Guidelines

Agency rules prohibits the arrest of American nationals and the organization has claimed it refrains from take into custody US citizens. However, external research has discovered that over 170 citizens have been held against their will by ICE during the period of the existing leadership.

Ongoing Trend

ICE raids have been becoming more common in New York and around the country lately.

A recent action in central NYC was the earliest reported action on an immigrant shelter of the present government. Protests opposing ICE are widespread as are claims of violence and abusive practices.

Most recently, a letter filed by advocacy organizations stated healthcare failures of women with child in detention centers.