Seeking Justice: The Controversy Surrounding Mohammad Nazeer Paktiawal's Death in ICE Custody
An Afghan national who had served alongside U.S. forces passed away due to an allergic reaction while in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Mohammad Nazeer Paktiawal, 41, experienced an adverse drug reaction that led to anaphylaxis and worsened his asthma, resulting in his death at a Dallas hospital. Paktiawal's death has sparked outrage as he had been a long-time ally of U.S. Special Forces in Afghanistan.
Paktiawal's death in ICE custody has raised questions and demands for transparency from members of Congress and advocacy groups. Out of over 50 ICE detention deaths during President Donald Trump's second term, Paktiawal's death is the first to be classified as an accident. AfghanEvac has urged Texas authorities to release the full autopsy report to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding Paktiawal's death.
Having been evacuated from Afghanistan with other individuals when U.S. troops withdrew in 2021, Paktiawal had entered the U.S. legally and was seeking asylum. Despite pending asylum claims, ICE arrested him on March 13, citing previous arrests related to food stamp fraud and theft charges. ICE has defended its decision to target Paktiawal for deportation, despite no convictions in the mentioned cases.
Following his arrest, Paktiawal was screened by ICE and denied any medical conditions or allergies. However, he later experienced breathing difficulties and chest pain, leading to his transfer to a hospital where he ultimately passed away. The cause of death was determined to be anaphylaxis complicating acute asthma exacerbation, with contributing factors listed as toxic effects of methamphetamine, heart disease, and smoking.
Despite efforts by Paktiawal's family and coworkers to seek clarity on the circumstances of his death, the full autopsy report has been withheld by Texas authorities citing interference with an ongoing criminal investigation. Requests for the report's release have been met with resistance, with authorities citing concerns about compromising the investigation.
In light of the lack of transparency surrounding Paktiawal's death, there are growing calls for accountability and disclosure of information to shed light on the events leading to his tragic passing. The circumstances surrounding his death remain a point of contention, with his family and advocates seeking answers and clarity on the sequence of events that led to his untimely demise.