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New York state attorney general has launched a new reporting form asking locals to provide images and footage of federal immigration enforcement throughout the state. This step follows a day after a high-profile ICE raid shook NYC's Chinatown, prompting widespread demonstrations.

American Citizens Detained During ICE Operation

A lawmaker disclosed during a Wednesday press conference that four US citizens were detained and held for "about 24 hours" following Tuesday's raid. Demonstrations erupted in NYC on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Every New Yorker has the right to live without fear," the attorney general declared in a statement.

"For those who saw and documented ICE activity during the raid, I encourage you to share that evidence with the authorities. We are pledged to reviewing these accounts and determining any legal breaches."

Form Details

The form includes fields to send images and video footage of the raid, along with a section to indicate geographic details. When submitting, individuals must tick a option that states that "the office could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a legal proceeding, such as in a legal proceeding or government document."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The Manhattan operation, which onlookers say included over fifty federal agents, took place in a popular district of NYC where counterfeit handbags, accessories, jewelry and merchandise are commonly traded en masse – often to sightseers.

Footage of Tuesday's raid show several masked and armed personnel securing and holding a individual, and shoving away bystanders. Masses of New Yorkers pursued the personnel down the sidewalks. An armored truck was also seen moving along the urban roads.

Official Reactions

During a Wednesday press conference held with the rights organization, congressman Dan Goldman, a lawmaker, announced that four US citizens were arrested by immigration for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where US citizens should be detained for without cause." He noted the persons were freed on the following day with no charges filed.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not about removing offenders," he remarked. "This is a armed campaign to create conflict. It is merely a excuse to provoke conflict for the government to deploy the military to prevent conflict that they themselves caused."

Broad Criticism

Anger over the federal action rapidly grew – every political contenders criticized the operation, including NY's governor.

"Once again, the federal government selects authoritarian theatrics that instill panic, instead of protection. It has to end," a contender declared.

New York City advocacy organizations voiced concern too.

"ICE descended on the neighborhood with military-style vehicles, hooded officers and tactical gear to focus on small merchants attempting to earn income. This action had no connection to public safety and everything to do with intimidating residents and communities," stated the head of a rights organization.

Official Guidelines

Agency rules bans the detention of US citizens and the bureau has claimed it does not arrest or detain US citizens. Yet, investigative journalism has revealed that over 170 citizens have been held against their will by immigration authorities during the period of the current administration.

Current Situation

ICE raids have been becoming more common in NY and around the country lately.

A recent action in midtown Manhattan was the first known raid on an housing center of the present government. Rallies against immigration enforcement are commonplace as are accusations of force and abusive practices.

Latest, a document provided by advocacy organizations alleged inadequate care of pregnant women in ICE facilities.