Afghan Evacuee Dies in Dallas US Immigration Custody
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Washington — Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Afghan asylum-seeker Mohammad Nazeer Paktyawal outside his Dallas home March 13; medical staff transported him to Parkland Hospital where he died on March 14. Paktyawal, 41, had worked with US forces and arrived under an evacuation program in 2021; his asylum case remained pending and family reported no chronic illness. ICE said staff observed acute tongue swelling during breakfast and that his death is already under active investigation; the agency noted no reported medical history at arrest. Family groups and advocates are calling for independent inquiries. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 2021: Paktyawal evacuated to the United States after working with US forces.
- 2. March 13, 2026: Agents detained Paktyawal outside his Dallas residence during a targeted enforcement action.
- 3. March 13, 2026: Paktyawal reported shortness of breath and chest pains and was transported to Parkland Hospital.
- 4. March 14, 2026: Medical staff declared Paktyawal deceased after emergency interventions; ICE opened an active investigation.
- 5. Mid-March 2026: Family, AfghanEvac and advocacy groups called for independent inquiries while media reported detention-fatality trends.
Why it matters
This case highlights the challenges faced by Afghan evacuees in the US. It's a reminder to stay informed about immigration policies and their impact on our communities. If you know an asylum-seeker, they may need support navigating the system.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
