Immigration Agents Slammed for Death of Nearly Blind Refugee

The death of a nearly blind refugee in Buffalo, New York, days after Border Patrol agents dropped him off alone at a coffee shop, has prompted an investigation into the circumstances of his final days and drawn sharp criticism from state and local officials, Hannah Park, Alidsha Ebrahimji and Elise Hammond reported for CNN.

There are still many unanswered questions about Shah Alam’s death and what led up to it. (Photo: U.S. Department of Homeland Security Facebook) 

Nurul Amin Shah Alam, 56, who spoke little English, had been missing since Feb. 19, when agents left him at the shop shortly after he was released from the Erie County Jail, officials said.

His body was found five days later, around 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, about four miles from the coffee shop, the Buffalo Police Department said.

Dozens of people gathered at a local mosque for Shah Alam’s funeral Thursday afternoon. They prayed and went to a cemetery to lay the father to rest.

There are still many unanswered questions about Shah Alam’s death and what led up to it.

A spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection said Border Patrol agents offered Shah Alam “a courtesy ride, which he chose to accept to a coffee shop, determined to be a warm, safe location near his last known address, rather than be released directly from the Border Patrol station.”

It turned out the coffee shop was closed.

“He showed no signs of distress, mobility issues, or disabilities requiring special assistance,” CBP said. Buffalo Police said its homicide detectives are investigating “the circumstances and timeframe of events leading up to his death, following his release from custody.”