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New York state AG has launched a recent reporting form asking residents to share visual evidence of immigration raids across the state. This move comes just a day after a significant immigration operation shook NYC's Chinatown, sparking large-scale demonstrations.

US Citizens Arrested In Raid

A US congressman announced during a midweek briefing that four American citizens were detained and detained for "about 24 hours" following Tuesday's raid. Rallies broke out in NYC on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Every New Yorker is entitled to reside free from terror," the AG declared in a statement.

"Anyone who observed and documented federal operations yesterday, I urge you to provide that material with the authorities. We are dedicated to reviewing these reports and investigating any violations of law."

Submission Process

The platform offers fields to send visual evidence of the incident, along with a section to note where it occurred. Prior to sending, individuals must check a option that states that "authorities may use any documents, photographs, or videos in a legal proceeding, including in a lawsuit or official statement."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Chinatown raid, which observers say included dozens of federal agents, occurred in a popular area of Manhattan where counterfeit handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are commonly traded widely – typically to sightseers.

Videos of Tuesday's raid reveal multiple hooded and equipped federal agents securing and holding a person, and forcing aside witnesses. Masses of New Yorkers pursued the agents down the sidewalks. An military-style transport was observed traveling down the Manhattan avenues.

Leadership Statements

At a news conference featuring the immigrant advocacy group, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democratic representative, announced that four nationals were taken by federal agents for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no situations where four American citizens should be taken for unjustly." He said the citizens were let go on the following day with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman remarked. "This is a armed campaign to create conflict. It is purely a justification to incite violence for federal officials to bring in the military to stop unrest that they themselves caused."

Extensive Outcry

Fury over the ICE raid escalated – all three political contenders denounced the raid, including the state leader.

"Yet again, the federal government opts for oppressive displays that create fear, instead of protection. It has to end," a contender wrote.

New York City community groups voiced concern as well.

"Federal officers raided Chinatown in NYC with armored transports, covered personnel and protective equipment to focus on street vendors working to survive. This action had nothing to do with public safety and focused completely on terrorizing immigrant families and communities," said the leader of a rights organization.

Agency Rules

Official guidelines bans the arrest of American nationals and the organization has said it refrains from arrest or detain American nationals. Nevertheless, external research has discovered that over 170 American nationals have been held against their will by ICE since the start of the current administration.

Recent Pattern

Immigration operations have been becoming more common in NY and across the US recently.

An October operation in the city center was the first known raid on an housing center of the existing leadership. Rallies targeting ICE are widespread including allegations of aggression and inhumane treatment.

Recently, a letter submitted by civil rights groups alleged inadequate care of expectant mothers in detention centers.