🔗 Share this article NY Introduces Reporting Tool for Public to Report ICE Footage Following Arrests of 4 US Citizens The state AG has introduced a fresh digital platform urging citizens to share visual evidence of ICE operations around New York. This move follows a shortly after a high-profile immigration operation shook NYC's Chinatown, triggering mass protests. American Citizens Detained During ICE Operation A congressional representative announced during a Wednesday press conference that four American citizens were detained and detained for "almost a full day" following Tuesday's raid. Rallies occurred in NYC on consecutive evenings. "All New York residents has the right to exist without intimidation," the AG stated in a announcement. "For those who saw and recorded immigration enforcement during the raid, I encourage you to provide that footage with my office. We are committed to assessing these submissions and evaluating any wrongdoings." Form Details The portal offers spaces to upload photos and videos of the raid, along with a area to note geographic details. Prior to sending, individuals must tick a option that states that "the attorney general may use any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, such as in a court case or government document." Information about the ICE Action The Chinatown raid, which witnesses say included over fifty federal agents, took place in a popular district of the city where imitation products and other goods are sold daily en masse – frequently to sightseers. Videos of the operation show numerous masked and armed federal agents securing and holding a man, and forcing aside onlookers. Masses of locals followed the agents along the roads. An armored military vehicle was noticed traveling down the Manhattan avenues. Official Reactions During a news conference featuring the New York immigrant rights coalition, the congressman, a lawmaker, said that four nationals were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no situations where four American citizens should be detained for no reason." He clarified the citizens were released on Wednesday with no charges filed. "There's a clear purpose here. It is not to take criminals off the street," he stated. "This constitutes a armed campaign to incite tension. It is merely a justification to incite violence for the government to bring in the troops to prevent unrest that they have created." Broad Criticism Anger over the federal action escalated – all three political contenders criticized the raid, as did NY's governor. "Once again, the current administration chooses oppressive displays that instill panic, instead of protection. It has to end," a political candidate declared. New York City advocacy organizations spoke out as well. "ICE targeted Chinatown in NYC with tactical trucks, covered personnel and tactical gear to focus on local sellers trying to make a living. This action had no relation to citizen protection and everything to do with frightening communities and communities," said the leader of a advocacy group. Agency Rules Agency rules bans the arrest of American nationals and the agency has stated it does not take into custody citizens. Yet, external research has discovered that numerous US citizens have been held against their will by federal agents since the beginning of the current administration. Current Situation Immigration operations have been rising in frequency in NY and around the country lately. A mid-October raid in the city center was the first known raid on an immigrant shelter of the present government. Protests opposing immigration enforcement are widespread including allegations of aggression and cruel conditions. Latest, a letter provided by civil rights groups stated inadequate care of pregnant women in detention centers.