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The state attorney general has launched a fresh online portal encouraging residents to provide images and footage of immigration raids across the state. This action comes just a day after a significant immigration operation disrupted NYC's Chinatown, triggering widespread demonstrations.

American Citizens Detained During Enforcement Action

A congressional representative disclosed during a news conference that four American citizens were detained and detained for "almost a full day" after Tuesday's raid. Demonstrations broke out in the city on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Each citizen has the right to reside free from terror," state officials stated in a release.

"Anyone who observed and captured immigration enforcement recently, I urge you to submit that footage with my office. We are committed to assessing these reports and investigating any wrongdoings."

Submission Process

The portal offers fields to submit photos and videos of the incident, as well as a section to note where it occurred. Before submitting, individuals must tick a checkbox that states that "authorities may use any documents, photographs, or videos in a legal proceeding, including in a lawsuit or official statement."

Details of the ICE Action

The enforcement action, which observers say featured more than 50 government officers, took place in a well-known neighborhood of the city where fake products and merchandise are sold daily in large quantities – typically to visitors.

Footage of Tuesday's raid show several masked and armed officers restraining and arresting a individual, and forcing aside witnesses. Masses of locals trailed the agents along the roads. An armored truck was also seen rolling through the city streets.

Official Reactions

In a Wednesday press conference featuring the New York immigrant rights coalition, the congressman, a Democrat, stated that four US citizens were detained by ICE for about 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be arrested for without cause." He clarified the individuals were let go on the following day with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not about removing offenders," Goldman said. "This is a armed campaign to create conflict. It is purely a excuse to provoke conflict for the government to bring in the military to stop unrest that they have created."

Extensive Outcry

Anger over the immigration operation quickly spread – each of the mayoral candidates denounced the raid, as did the state leader.

"Repeatedly, the Trump administration chooses heavy-handed tactics that create fear, not safety. It needs to cease," a political candidate stated.

New York City immigrant rights groups spoke out too.

"Immigration agents raided Chinatown in NYC with armored transports, hooded officers and tactical gear to focus on small merchants attempting to earn income. This action had no connection to community security and focused completely on intimidating residents and areas," said the head of a major immigrant coalition.

Agency Rules

Official guidelines bans the holding of citizens and the bureau has stated it refrains from arrest or detain citizens. However, independent reporting has found that over 170 citizens have been detained unlawfully by federal agents since the beginning of the existing leadership.

Recent Pattern

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in the state and nationwide recently.

An October operation in midtown Manhattan was the first known raid on an immigrant shelter of the existing leadership. Protests targeting immigration enforcement are commonplace as are claims of violence and abusive practices.

Latest, a document filed by civil rights groups claimed healthcare failures of expectant mothers in government custody.