An Afghan man who had been working with US forces died in ICE custody shortly after his arrest, leading to calls for an investigation into the circumstances of his death.
An Afghan man, Mohommad Nazeer Paktyawal, was reported to have died in a Texas hospital less than 24 hours after being apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Paktyawal, 41, had previously collaborated with US Army Special Forces in Afghanistan and was evacuated to the United States during the 2021 operations to assist Afghan allies. His asylum case is still pending, raising concerns about the treatment and care of such individuals within the US immigration system.
ICE stated that Paktyawal was arrested during a targeted enforcement action on a Friday and subsequently taken to Parkland Hospital in Dallas after he exhibited symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pains. The circumstances of his medical deterioration were alarming, as medical staff reportedly observed a significant health issue when he was found eating breakfast with a swollen tongue. Despite efforts to save his life, he was pronounced dead the following morning, with the exact cause of death yet to be disclosed.
His sudden death has raised concerns about the healthcare provided in ICE detention facilities and has prompted advocates and organizations to call for an investigation into the incident. Officials are currently looking into the matter, as it highlights larger issues regarding the welfare of asylum seekers and immigrants under US custody, particularly those with prior service to the US military overseas.
