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New York state attorney general has launched a recent reporting form asking residents to share photos and videos of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This move comes just a day after a high-profile enforcement action rattled Manhattan's Chinatown, sparking widespread outcry.

US Citizens Arrested During Raid

A congressional representative announced during a Wednesday press conference that four US citizens were detained and held for "almost a full day" following Tuesday's raid. Rallies broke out in NYC on consecutive evenings.

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

"Anyone who observed and recorded ICE activity recently, I encourage you to provide that evidence with my office. We are committed to reviewing these reports and determining any violations of law."

Form Details

The portal provides fields to send images and video footage of the raid, as well as a area to indicate where it occurred. Prior to sending, users must mark a checkbox that confirms that "the office could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a legal proceeding, including in a court case or official statement."

Details of the ICE Action

The enforcement action, which observers say included dozens of federal agents, occurred in a well-known district of NYC where counterfeit products and additional items are sold daily in large quantities – frequently to tourists.

Videos of the operation reveal multiple masked and armed officers securing and holding a person, and forcing aside witnesses. Throngs of residents pursued the officers along the roads. An military-style transport was observed traveling down the city streets.

Official Reactions

In a Wednesday press conference held with the rights organization, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, stated that four nationals were detained by ICE for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where US citizens should be arrested for no reason." He said the citizens were freed on the following day with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman said. "This represents a military-style operation to incite tension. It is simply a excuse to generate turmoil for this administration to deploy the armed forces to stop unrest that they themselves caused."

Extensive Outcry

Anger over the immigration operation quickly spread – each of the political contenders condemned the operation, including the state leader.

"Yet again, the federal government opts for authoritarian theatrics that create fear, instead of protection. It must stop," one mayoral candidate declared.

NYC advocacy organizations spoke out too.

"ICE raided Chinatown in NYC with tactical trucks, masked agents and protective equipment to target street vendors trying to make a living. This action had nothing to do with community security and everything to do with intimidating residents and areas," remarked the leader of a rights organization.

Agency Rules

Agency rules bans the detention of US citizens and the organization has stated it refrains from apprehend American nationals. However, independent reporting has discovered that more than 170 citizens have been held against their will by federal agents during the period of the present government.

Recent Pattern

Immigration operations have been becoming more common in NY and nationwide recently.

A mid-October raid in the city center was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the present government. Protests opposing federal operations are widespread as are allegations of violence and cruel conditions.

Latest, a letter submitted by legal entities alleged medical neglect of women with child in detention centers.