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The state attorney general has introduced a new reporting form asking residents to share visual evidence of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This action follows a day after a major enforcement action shook NYC's Chinatown, triggering mass demonstrations.

American Citizens Arrested In Enforcement Action

A congressional representative announced during a Wednesday press conference that four citizens were arrested and held for "almost a full day" following the enforcement action. Protests occurred in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Every New Yorker is entitled to reside free from terror," the attorney general wrote in a statement.

"For those who saw and captured immigration enforcement recently, I encourage you to submit that footage with the authorities. We are dedicated to assessing these accounts and investigating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The platform includes spaces to submit photos and videos of the raid, plus a section to specify geographic details. When submitting, individuals must check a box that acknowledges that "authorities might employ any materials, images, or footage in a public document, such as in a legal proceeding or government document."

Details of the ICE Action

The enforcement action, which onlookers say included more than 50 ICE personnel, took place in a well-known neighborhood of NYC where counterfeit handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are commonly traded widely – typically to visitors.

Videos of the incident reveal numerous covered and weaponized personnel zip-tying and detaining a man, and forcing aside bystanders. Crowds of residents trailed the personnel down the sidewalks. An armored truck was noticed moving along the city streets.

Official Reactions

During a Wednesday press conference organized with the New York immigrant rights coalition, the congressman, a Democrat, stated that four nationals were arrested by immigration for about 24 hours and that there were "no conditions where US citizens should be taken for without cause." He clarified the citizens were released on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not about removing offenders," he said. "This is a militarized effort to incite tension. It is simply a excuse to generate turmoil for this administration to deploy the troops to prevent unrest that they themselves caused."

Broad Criticism

Anger over the ICE raid escalated – all three NYC mayor hopefuls denounced the operation, along with Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Once again, the federal government opts for oppressive displays that instill panic, rather than security. It needs to cease," one mayoral candidate wrote.

New York City advocacy organizations spoke out too.

"ICE raided Chinatown in NYC with military-style vehicles, masked agents and tactical gear to go after small merchants working to survive. This action had no relation to citizen protection and everything to do with intimidating residents and communities," said the leader of a rights organization.

Agency Rules

Official guidelines forbids the arrest of American nationals and the agency has said it does not arrest or detain US citizens. However, external research has revealed that over 170 citizens have been taken illegally by ICE during the period of the existing leadership.

Recent Pattern

Enforcement actions have been becoming more common in NY and across the US lately.

A recent action in midtown Manhattan was the earliest reported action on an immigrant shelter of the existing leadership. Protests targeting federal operations are widespread as are claims of force and abusive practices.

Recently, a document submitted by advocacy organizations claimed healthcare failures of pregnant women in ICE facilities.