🔗 Share this article

New York state attorney general has rolled out a new online portal urging locals to submit photos and videos of ICE operations across New York. This step follows a shortly after a high-profile ICE raid disrupted NYC's Chinatown, triggering mass outcry.

US Citizens Arrested In ICE Operation

A US congressman announced during a news conference that four US citizens were arrested and held for "nearly 24 hours" after the enforcement action. Rallies broke out in NYC on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"All New York residents is entitled to exist without intimidation," the attorney general wrote in a announcement.

"For those who saw and documented ICE activity yesterday, I urge you to submit that material with my office. We are pledged to examining these submissions and evaluating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The platform offers fields to submit images and video footage of the incident, plus a area to indicate geographic details. When submitting, individuals must mark a box that states that "the office could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a official report, including in a court case or public report."

Details of the ICE Action

The Chinatown raid, which observers say involved more than 50 federal agents, occurred in a famous area of Manhattan where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and merchandise are commonly traded widely – often to sightseers.

Recordings of the operation depict numerous masked and armed federal agents securing and holding a man, and pushing back witnesses. Throngs of New Yorkers followed the personnel down the sidewalks. An military-style transport was noticed moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

In a midweek briefing held with the immigrant advocacy group, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democrat, announced that four nationals were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no situations where US citizens should be arrested for without cause." He clarified the persons were released on the following day with no accusations made.

"The goal is evident here. It is not about removing offenders," he said. "This constitutes a armed campaign to create conflict. It is purely a excuse to provoke conflict for federal officials to utilize the military to halt conflict that they have created."

Extensive Outcry

Anger over the federal action escalated – every NYC mayor hopefuls condemned the incident, including the state leader.

"Once again, the current administration chooses oppressive displays that generate terror, rather than security. It has to end," a political candidate declared.

The city's advocacy organizations voiced concern too.

"Federal officers raided Chinatown in NYC with armored transports, masked agents and tactical gear to go after small merchants attempting to earn income. This operation had no connection to community security and everything to do with terrorizing immigrant families and areas," remarked the president of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

ICE policy forbids the arrest of American nationals and the bureau has claimed it will not take into custody citizens. Yet, investigative journalism has revealed that over 170 American nationals have been held against their will by ICE since the beginning of the present government.

Current Situation

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in the state and around the country lately.

An October operation in the city center was the earliest reported action on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Demonstrations targeting ICE are widespread as are claims of aggression and inhumane treatment.

Most recently, a document filed by civil rights groups stated inadequate care of women with child in detention centers.