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New York state AG has launched a new online portal asking citizens to provide images and footage of federal immigration enforcement across the state. This move follows a day after a major enforcement action rattled Manhattan's Chinatown, sparking mass outcry.

American Citizens Held During Raid

A congressional representative disclosed during a midweek briefing that four American citizens were taken into custody and detained for "nearly 24 hours" following the previous day's operation. Protests occurred in NYC on consecutive evenings.

"All New York residents has the right to reside free from terror," the AG declared in a announcement.

"For those who saw and captured immigration enforcement recently, I encourage you to provide that footage with us. We are committed to reviewing these submissions and investigating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The platform includes options to upload photos and videos of the raid, as well as a section to note location information. Prior to sending, users must check a box that acknowledges that "the attorney general could utilize any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, including in a legal proceeding or public report."

Information about the Chinatown Raid

The enforcement action, which witnesses say involved over fifty federal agents, occurred in a famous district of Manhattan where counterfeit products and additional items are regularly available widely – frequently to sightseers.

Videos of the incident show numerous hooded and equipped federal agents zip-tying and detaining a man, and forcing aside bystanders. Crowds of New Yorkers followed the officers through the streets. An armored truck was also seen traveling down the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

In a Wednesday press conference organized with the New York immigrant rights coalition, Representative Goldman, a Democrat, said that four American citizens were taken by federal agents for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no situations where four American citizens should be taken for without cause." He clarified the persons were let go on Wednesday with no accusations made.

"The goal is evident here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," Goldman remarked. "This constitutes a militarized effort to provoke unrest. It is merely a justification to generate turmoil for this administration to bring in the armed forces to stop conflict that they themselves caused."

Extensive Outcry

Anger over the federal action escalated – every political contenders condemned the operation, as did the state leader.

"Repeatedly, the current administration selects authoritarian theatrics that create fear, instead of protection. It needs to cease," a contender declared.

The city's advocacy organizations expressed outrage as well.

"Federal officers descended on Manhattan's Chinatown with armored transports, covered personnel and protective equipment to go after street vendors attempting to earn income. This raid had nothing to do with community security and focused completely on frightening communities and neighborhoods," stated the leader of a major immigrant coalition.

Agency Rules

Official guidelines prohibits the detention of US citizens and the agency has claimed it will not take into custody citizens. Nevertheless, investigative journalism has found that more than 170 US citizens have been detained unlawfully by federal agents since the start of the existing leadership.

Ongoing Trend

Enforcement actions have been cropping up increasingly in New York and around the country lately.

A recent action in the city center was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the current administration. Rallies targeting federal operations are ubiquitous as are accusations of force and cruel conditions.

Latest, a submission filed by legal entities claimed inadequate care of expectant mothers in detention centers.