Congressman Veasey Demands Answers on the Death of an Afghan U.S. Ally in Dallas ICE Center
This death occurred a week after Rep Veasey conducted a congressional oversight visit to the Dallas ICE Processing Center
Dallas, Texas — Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33) releases the following statement on the death of a detainee at the ICE Processing Center: Today, I learned of the tragic death of Mohammed Nazeer Paktiawal—an Afghan father who once served alongside the United States—after he was held at the ICE Processing Center in Dallas. No family should ever have to learn that their loved one died while in government custody. Mr. Paktiawal’s death raises serious and urgent questions that demand immediate answers. I am requesting a full and transparent investigation and demanding that ICE and the Department of Homeland Security provide clear accountability.
“Last week, I visited that same ICE Processing Center in Dallas. During my visit, officials assured me that individuals held at the facility are generally not detained for longer than eight hours except in rare circumstances. However, that assurance stands in stark contrast to reports I have received from members of the community describing people being held far longer.
“When individuals place their trust in the United States—working alongside our military and intelligence services and often putting themselves and their families in grave danger—what obligation do we owe them when they come here legally seeking safety and dignity? If someone like Mohammed Nazeer Paktiawal, who risked his life to assist the United States, can die in custody under these circumstances, it sends a troubling signal far beyond our borders. Stories like his will reach places like Afghanistan and Iran, where people weigh the risks of cooperating with the United States and ask a simple question: if we stand with America, will America stand with us? Our credibility—and our ability to find people willing to risk everything to help protect our nation—depends on how we answer that question.
“Congress has a responsibility to check this administration, and I will continue pressing federal officials for transparency and accountability.