Full Breakdown
Afghan Wartime Ally Dies in ICE Custody: A Call for Justice
3/16/2026, 10:42:59 PM
Incident Overview
Mohammed Nazeer Paktyawal, a 41-year-old Afghan immigrant who served alongside U.S. military forces, died on March 14, 2026, less than 24 hours after being detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Richardson, Texas. Paktyawal was arrested while taking his six children to school, an event that has drawn significant attention and calls for investigation from advocacy groups and community members.
Background of Mohammed Nazeer Paktyawal
Paktyawal worked with U.S. Army Special Forces in Afghanistan for over a decade, beginning in 2005. He was evacuated to the U.S. in August 2021 amid the withdrawal of U.S. troops and the Taliban's return to power. At the time of his arrest, Paktyawal was living in the U.S. legally under a temporary parole status, which was set to expire in August 2025. He had a pending asylum case and was employed at a local Afghan halal market.
Circumstances of Arrest and Death
Paktyawal was taken into custody during a "targeted enforcement action" by ICE, which cited his prior arrests for SNAP fraud and theft as reasons for his detention. However, family members and advocacy groups have disputed the characterization of his criminal history, noting that he had not been convicted of these charges. Following his arrest, Paktyawal began experiencing shortness of breath and chest pains while in an ICE processing hold room. He was transported to Parkland Hospital, where he was initially treated but later died after medical staff noted swelling of his tongue during breakfast.
Community Response and Calls for Investigation
The circumstances surrounding Paktyawal's death have prompted widespread outrage. Advocacy group AfghanEvac, led by Shawn VanDiver, has called for an immediate investigation, stating, "It is not normal for a healthy 41-year-old man to die within a day of being taken into government custody." Community members gathered outside the hospital, expressing fear and demanding justice for Paktyawal and other Afghan immigrants facing similar situations. VanDiver emphasized the need for accountability, stating, "His family deserves answers. The American public deserves answers."
Official Statements and Responses
ICE has confirmed Paktyawal's death and stated that it is under investigation. The agency maintains that it is committed to ensuring the safety and humane treatment of individuals in custody. However, critics argue that the agency has a troubling history of deaths in custody, with at least 12 reported this year alone. The Afghan-American Foundation has also called for an independent investigation, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in the treatment of Afghan allies.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While ICE reported that Paktyawal did not disclose any prior medical history at the time of his arrest, family members and community advocates have raised concerns about the adequacy of medical care provided during his detention. There is also a lack of clarity regarding the details of his previous arrests, as ICE has not confirmed whether he was convicted of the alleged crimes.
What's Next
The Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General and Congress have been urged to investigate the circumstances surrounding Paktyawal's death. As the community mourns the loss of a father and ally, the case raises broader questions about the treatment of Afghan refugees and the policies governing ICE detentions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He was a hero to his family, to his people, and to his country,” — Naseer Paktiawal, Brother
- “It is not normal for a healthy 41-year-old man to die within a day of being taken into government custody. Mr. Paktyawal survived our war in Afghanistan and trusted the United States enough to rebuild his life here.” — Shawn VanDiver, President, AfghanEvac
- “Whatever one's views on immigration policy, a man who served alongside U.S. forces for over a decade, who was evacuated to the U.S. with legal status, was raising his family here, who was living the life of a neighbor and a dad, deserved to be treated with dignity,” — Afghan-American Foundation Statement
The tragic death of Mohammed Nazeer Paktyawal underscores the urgent need for reform and accountability within the immigration enforcement system, particularly regarding the treatment of those who have risked their lives to support U.S. military efforts abroad.
