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Blind Rohingya Refugee Found Dead in Buffalo After Border Patrol Drop-Off

Officials demand an explanation from Border Patrol for releasing a vulnerable refugee miles from home.

Overview

  • City Hall spokesperson Ian Ott confirmed that Nurul Amin Shah Alam, 56, was found dead Tuesday night on Perry Street by B District officers after days reported missing since February 19.
  • Investigative reporting says Border Patrol left Shah Alam at a Tim Hortons about five miles from his residence in freezing conditions without notifying his family.
  • The Erie County Sheriff’s Office had contacted Border Patrol because of an immigration detainer, and Shah Alam pleaded guilty to lift the hold before posting bail and leaving county custody.
  • Buffalo Police opened a missing person case on Sunday but closed it the next day after incorrectly assuming Shah Alam was in immigration custody.
  • Local leaders and advocates, including Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan and Rep. Tim Kennedy, are demanding answers and investigations, with some commentators urging criminal accountability for federal agents.