Full Breakdown
Investigation Urged Following Death of Afghan Veteran in ICE Custody
3/16/2026, 11:07:09 PM
Circumstances Surrounding the Death of Mohommad Nazeer Paktyawal
Mohommad Nazeer Paktyawal, a 41-year-old Afghan veteran who served alongside U.S. troops, died shortly after being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Dallas, Texas. Paktyawal was apprehended in front of his family while preparing to take his children to school. He was taken into custody on March 13, and within 24 hours, his family was informed of his death. The circumstances surrounding his detention and subsequent medical care have raised significant concerns, prompting calls for an investigation.
Paktyawal had been a special forces soldier in Afghanistan for over a decade, fighting alongside U.S. Army Special Forces. His sudden death has led the non-profit organization AfghanEvac to demand a thorough investigation into the events leading up to his passing. They emphasize that it is "not normal for a healthy 41-year-old man to die within a day of being taken into government custody." AfghanEvac's statement highlights the need for transparency and accountability, asserting that the U.S. made a promise to Afghan allies who supported American forces.
Official Statements & Responses
AfghanEvac has called for oversight from the Department of Homeland Security Inspector General and Congress to ensure a transparent investigation into Paktyawal's detention and medical treatment. The organization stated, "Mr. Paktyawal survived our war in Afghanistan and trusted the United States enough to rebuild his life here. His family deserves answers." The family expressed their disbelief and grief, noting that Paktyawal was a strong and healthy man who had focused on providing for his children since arriving in the U.S.
Criticism & Opposition
The rapidity of Paktyawal's decline from health to death has sparked outrage and concern among advocates for Afghan veterans. Critics argue that the treatment of Paktyawal reflects broader systemic issues within ICE and the handling of asylum seekers. AfghanEvac's statement underscores the urgency of addressing these concerns, stating, "Honoring that promise requires transparency, accountability, and dignity in how they are treated here at home."
Verbatim Quotes
- “The cause of death is unknown. But one fact is clear: it is not normal for a healthy 41-year-old man to die within a day of being taken into government custody.” — AfghanEvac
- “His children watched as he was surrounded and taken away. That moment will stay with them forever. Later that night we were told he had been taken to the hospital. The next morning we were told that he had died. We still cannot understand how this happened. He was only 41 years old and was a strong and healthy man. His children keep asking when their father will come home.” — Family Statement
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While AfghanEvac has called for an investigation, specific details regarding the cause of Paktyawal's death remain undisclosed. The family and advocates are seeking clarity on the medical care he received while in custody, as well as the circumstances that led to his sudden health decline.
The case of Mohommad Nazeer Paktyawal highlights critical issues surrounding the treatment of veterans and asylum seekers in the U.S., raising questions about accountability and the responsibilities of government agencies.
