Afghan Man Who Worked with U.S. Military Dies in ICE Custody

Mohommad Nazeer Paktyawal, 41, died at a Texas hospital after being detained by immigration authorities.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:18pm

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An Afghan immigrant named Mohommad Nazeer Paktyawal, who had previously worked alongside U.S. military special forces in Afghanistan, died at a Texas hospital after being taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Paktyawal, 41, came to the U.S. as a refugee following the withdrawal of U.S. troops and the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. His family said he was not ill, and the cause of his death is still pending investigation.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about the treatment and care of immigrants in ICE custody, especially those who have previously assisted the U.S. military. It also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Afghan refugees trying to resettle in the U.S. after the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan.

The details

Paktyawal was arrested by ICE on September 16 for committing fraud against the government's food aid program, and again on November 1 for theft. While in ICE custody at a Dallas field office on Friday, he began complaining of shortness of breath and chest pains. He was taken to a hospital where he died the next morning, with medical staff unable to revive him.

  • Paktyawal was arrested by ICE on September 16, 2026.
  • Paktyawal was arrested again by ICE on November 1, 2026.
  • Paktyawal began experiencing medical issues and was hospitalized on March 15, 2026.
  • Paktyawal passed away at the hospital on March 16, 2026.

The players

Mohommad Nazeer Paktyawal

A 41-year-old Afghan immigrant who had previously worked alongside U.S. military special forces in Afghanistan and came to the U.S. as a refugee after the Taliban takeover.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency that detained Paktyawal and is investigating his death in custody.

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What’s next

ICE has stated that Paktyawal's death is currently under active investigation.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for greater oversight and accountability in the treatment of immigrants, especially those who have previously assisted the U.S. government, while in ICE custody. It also underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Afghan refugees trying to resettle in the U.S. after the chaotic withdrawal from their home country.