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The state attorney general has rolled out a new reporting form asking citizens to submit photos and videos of immigration raids around New York. This move follows a shortly after a high-profile immigration operation rattled Manhattan's Chinatown, triggering widespread protests.

US Citizens Detained During Raid

A US congressman announced during a news conference that four American citizens were taken into custody and kept for "almost a full day" following the previous day's operation. Protests erupted in New York on consecutive evenings.

"All New York residents is entitled to live without fear," the AG stated in a release.

"For those who saw and documented immigration enforcement yesterday, I urge you to provide that footage with my office. We are committed to reviewing these reports and evaluating any legal breaches."

Form Details

The platform includes fields to send images and video footage of the operation, plus a field to note location information. Prior to sending, individuals must tick a checkbox that states that "the office may use any materials, images, or footage in a legal proceeding, such as in a lawsuit or official statement."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Chinatown raid, which observers say included more than 50 federal agents, occurred in a famous district of the city where imitation purses, items, goods and merchandise are commonly traded widely – often to sightseers.

Videos of the incident show multiple hooded and equipped personnel restraining and arresting a individual, and pushing back onlookers. Crowds of residents trailed the officers through the streets. An armored truck was also seen rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Leadership Statements

During a news conference organized with the rights organization, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democratic representative, announced that four US citizens were arrested by immigration for about 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be detained for without cause." He noted the citizens were let go on the following day with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," Goldman stated. "This constitutes a militarized effort to provoke unrest. It is merely a pretext to incite violence for the government to utilize the troops to prevent violence that they initiated."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the ICE raid escalated – every NYC mayor hopefuls denounced the operation, including the state leader.

"Repeatedly, the federal government opts for authoritarian theatrics that instill panic, instead of protection. It must stop," a contender declared.

The city's community groups voiced concern too.

"ICE raided Chinatown in NYC with armored transports, hooded officers and tactical gear to go after local sellers trying to make a living. This operation had no connection to public safety and everything to do with frightening communities and neighborhoods," said the head of a rights organization.

Official Guidelines

Official guidelines prohibits the arrest of American nationals and the bureau has claimed it does not apprehend US citizens. Yet, investigative journalism has discovered that numerous citizens have been taken illegally by federal agents since the start of the present government.

Recent Pattern

ICE raids have been cropping up increasingly in the state and across the US lately.

A mid-October raid in midtown Manhattan was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Demonstrations against ICE are commonplace including accusations of violence and cruel conditions.

Most recently, a submission provided by legal entities stated medical neglect of pregnant women in detention centers.