Blind Refugee Found Dead Days After Border Patrol Release

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Nurul Amin Shah Alam, a 56-year-old blind Rohingya refugee from Myanmar, was found dead in downtown Buffalo several days after being released by U.S. Border Patrol agents. Surveillance footage contradicts the DHS's claim that agents dropped him off at a 'warm, safe location', raising questions about the circumstances of his death.

Why it matters

The death of Shah Alam, who was released by Border Patrol despite not being eligible for deportation, has sparked outrage and calls for accountability from Homeland Security Democrats. It highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of vulnerable immigrants and refugees in U.S. custody.

The details

According to surveillance footage obtained by the Investigative Post, Border Patrol agents dropped off Shah Alam outside a closed coffee shop, contradicting the DHS's claim that he was taken to a 'warm, safe location'. Shah Alam was found dead on the street five days later, prompting a police investigation and complaints from city officials that he had been abandoned without care for his safety.

• On February 19, Shah Alam was detained by Border Patrol agents after his release from a county jail.
• On the same day, federal authorities determined Shah Alam was not eligible for deportation and released him.
• Shah Alam was found dead on the street five days later, on February 24.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The police investigation into Shah Alam's death is ongoing, and Homeland Security Democrats have called for accountability from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem.