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New York state attorney general has introduced a fresh reporting form urging locals to submit images and footage of immigration raids across New York. This move follows a shortly after a major immigration operation disrupted Chinatown in Manhattan, triggering widespread demonstrations.

American Citizens Held During Raid

A US congressman revealed during a midweek briefing that four US citizens were arrested and held for "almost a full day" following the enforcement action. Rallies occurred in NYC on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

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

"If you witnessed and recorded ICE activity during the raid, I ask you to submit that evidence with the authorities. We are dedicated to examining these reports and investigating any legal breaches."

Form Details

The platform includes fields to send photos and videos of the incident, plus a field to specify geographic details. Before submitting, individuals must tick a option that states that "the office could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a public document, such as in a lawsuit or official statement."

Information about the Chinatown Raid

The Chinatown raid, which onlookers say featured dozens of government officers, happened in a famous neighborhood of Manhattan where fake products and other goods are sold daily en masse – often to visitors.

Recordings of the incident depict multiple covered and weaponized officers restraining and arresting a person, and forcing aside bystanders. Throngs of New Yorkers followed the personnel along the roads. An armored military vehicle was noticed moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

During a midweek briefing organized with the New York immigrant rights coalition, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, stated that four American citizens were detained by ICE for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where four American citizens should be arrested for unjustly." He said the individuals were freed on the following day with no accusations made.

"The goal is evident here. It is not about removing offenders," Goldman said. "This constitutes a armed campaign to create conflict. It is purely a excuse to generate turmoil for the government to deploy the armed forces to prevent violence that they initiated."

Widespread Condemnation

Fury over the immigration operation rapidly grew – all three NYC mayor hopefuls criticized the operation, as did Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Yet again, the federal government opts for oppressive displays that generate terror, instead of protection. It needs to cease," a political candidate declared.

New York City immigrant rights groups expressed outrage also.

"Immigration agents raided Manhattan's Chinatown with armored transports, masked agents and protective equipment to focus on street vendors trying to make a living. This operation had no connection to community security and focused completely on terrorizing immigrant families and communities," stated the president of a advocacy group.

Official Guidelines

Official guidelines bans the detention of US citizens and the bureau has stated it will not take into custody US citizens. However, independent reporting has discovered that over 170 US citizens have been held against their will by federal agents since the start of the present government.

Current Situation

Immigration operations have been cropping up increasingly in NY and around the country this year.

A mid-October raid in the city center was the initial documented operation on an immigrant shelter of the current administration. Demonstrations opposing immigration enforcement are ubiquitous along with allegations of aggression and cruel conditions.

Recently, a document filed by advocacy organizations alleged inadequate care of women with child in ICE facilities.