🔗 Share this article

The state AG has rolled out a new digital platform urging locals to share visual evidence of ICE operations around the state. This step comes just a day after a major enforcement action shook Manhattan's Chinatown, sparking mass outcry.

American Citizens Held During Enforcement Action

A congressional representative revealed during a Wednesday press conference that four US citizens were detained and kept for "about 24 hours" following the previous day's operation. Rallies occurred in the city on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"All New York residents deserves to live without fear," state officials declared in a release.

"For those who saw and recorded federal operations during the raid, I ask you to share that footage with my office. We are committed to examining these accounts and determining any legal breaches."

Portal Features

The portal offers spaces to submit visual evidence of the operation, along with a section to indicate where it occurred. When submitting, submitters must check a checkbox that states that "authorities could utilize any evidence provided in a official report, including in a lawsuit or government document."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Chinatown raid, which witnesses say involved more than 50 government officers, took place in a well-known neighborhood of the city where counterfeit products and additional items are commonly traded in large quantities – frequently to visitors.

Footage of the operation reveal numerous hooded and equipped federal agents restraining and arresting a person, and shoving away witnesses. Masses of New Yorkers followed the personnel through the streets. An military-style transport was observed traveling down the city streets.

Leadership Statements

During a midweek briefing held with the immigrant advocacy group, Representative Goldman, a lawmaker, announced that four nationals were detained by ICE for almost a full day and that there were "no situations where four American citizens should be detained for unjustly." He noted the persons were let go on the following day with no accusations made.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman stated. "This represents a military-style operation to provoke unrest. It is simply a pretext to generate turmoil for the government to utilize the troops to halt unrest that they have created."

Widespread Condemnation

Outrage over the ICE raid rapidly grew – every mayoral candidates criticized the raid, as did the state leader.

"Once again, the current administration selects oppressive displays that generate terror, rather than security. It must stop," a political candidate stated.

New York City immigrant rights groups voiced concern too.

"Immigration agents targeted Chinatown in NYC with tactical trucks, covered personnel and riot gear to target street vendors attempting to earn income. This action had no relation to citizen protection and focused completely on intimidating residents and communities," said the head of a major immigrant coalition.

Official Guidelines

Official guidelines prohibits the holding of citizens and the bureau has stated it does not apprehend US citizens. However, external research has revealed that more than 170 citizens have been detained unlawfully by ICE during the period of the present government.

Current Situation

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in NY and nationwide this year.

A mid-October raid in central NYC was the first known raid on an housing center of the present government. Demonstrations targeting ICE are ubiquitous including allegations of aggression and abusive practices.

Recently, a submission submitted by advocacy organizations alleged healthcare failures of pregnant women in government custody.