The death of a 41-year-old Afghan refugee in United States custody has raised serious concerns over detention conditions and accountability. Mohammad Nazeer Paktyawal, a father of six, died less than a day after being detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in North Texas.

Paktyawal was taken into custody on March 13 outside his home in Richardson while preparing to take his children to school. According to his family, he managed to call his brother shortly after his arrest, saying he was unwell and in pain.

Health concerns before death

ICE officials stated that Paktyawal later complained of chest pain and shortness of breath at a processing facility. He was subsequently transported to a hospital in Dallas for medical treatment. By the following morning, his condition had worsened, with reports of severe complications, including swelling.

Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead on March 14. Authorities have said that the exact cause of death remains under investigation.

Family seeks clarity and justice

Paktyawal’s sudden death has left his family devastated and demanding answers. His 12-year-old son described him as a “hero,” while his brother recounted their final conversation, saying Paktyawal sounded frightened and repeatedly mentioned feeling unwell.

Family members have questioned both the reasons for his detention and the circumstances leading to his death, stating they have received no clear explanation so far.

Rising concerns over detention deaths

Paktyawal’s case adds to growing scrutiny surrounding deaths in immigration custody. Reports indicate he is among multiple detainees who have died this year, with numbers reportedly increasing compared to previous years.

Advocates have raised concerns about medical care, transparency, and the treatment of detainees, calling for thorough investigations and accountability.

Background and legal status

According to the Department of Homeland Security, Paktyawal entered the United States in 2021 under a humanitarian parole programme following the withdrawal from Afghanistan. His temporary legal status reportedly expired in August 2025.

Authorities also cited allegations related to fraud and theft, though officials confirmed these had not been adjudicated at the time of his death. His family has strongly disputed these claims, maintaining that he was pursuing asylum and complying with legal processes.