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New York state AG has introduced a recent reporting form asking locals to share photos and videos of immigration raids throughout the state. This move comes just a shortly after a major enforcement action rattled Manhattan's Chinatown, sparking large-scale outcry.

US Citizens Arrested During Raid

A US congressman disclosed during a news conference that four citizens were detained and detained for "almost a full day" following the previous day's operation. Rallies erupted in New York on consecutive evenings.

"Every New Yorker has the right to reside free from terror," the AG wrote in a announcement.

"For those who saw and documented ICE activity yesterday, I ask you to provide that evidence with the authorities. We are dedicated to examining these accounts and investigating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The form includes options to upload photos and videos of the raid, as well as a area to specify geographic details. Before submitting, users must tick a checkbox that confirms that "the attorney general may use any materials, images, or footage in a official report, including in a court case or official statement."

Information about the Manhattan Operation

The Manhattan operation, which observers say included more than 50 government officers, took place in a well-known district of NYC where counterfeit purses, items, goods and merchandise are sold daily widely – frequently to sightseers.

Recordings of the incident depict multiple covered and weaponized federal agents restraining and arresting a individual, and shoving away onlookers. Crowds of locals trailed the officers down the sidewalks. An armored truck was noticed moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

At a midweek briefing featuring the rights organization, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, said that four American citizens were taken by federal agents for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where four American citizens should be taken for unjustly." He clarified the persons were freed on the following day with no accusations made.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not to take criminals off the street," he said. "This represents a militarized effort to create conflict. It is simply a justification to generate turmoil for the government to bring in the troops to halt conflict that they have created."

Widespread Condemnation

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

"Yet again, the Trump administration opts for authoritarian theatrics that create fear, not safety. It needs to cease," one mayoral candidate stated.

NYC advocacy organizations spoke out too.

"ICE descended on the neighborhood with armored transports, covered personnel and protective equipment to target local sellers working to survive. This operation had no relation to community security and was entirely about intimidating residents and neighborhoods," stated the president of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

ICE policy bans the arrest of American nationals and the organization has claimed it does not take into custody citizens. Yet, investigative journalism has discovered that over 170 citizens have been taken illegally by federal agents since the beginning of the current administration.

Ongoing Trend

ICE raids have been becoming more common in New York and nationwide recently.

An October operation in central NYC was the earliest reported action on an refuge facility of the current administration. Rallies targeting federal operations are widespread including allegations of force and abusive practices.

Recently, a submission provided by civil rights groups alleged medical neglect of women with child in detention centers.