A Refugee's Dark Past: From Afghan Battles to D. C. Shooting

A man now accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, D. C. , once fought in Afghanistan as part of a controversial paramilitary group. This group, known as a “Zero Unit, ” worked closely with the C. I. A. and was notorious for its harsh tactics. Human rights groups even labeled them “death squads. ” The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, grew up in a small village in the eastern part of Afghanistan. A childhood friend, who feared Taliban retaliation and asked to be called Muhammad, shared that Lakanwal struggled with mental health issues. He was deeply troubled by the violence he witnessed and took part in during his time with the Zero Unit. Lakanwal came to the United States in April, seeking asylum. He was one of many Afghans relocated to the U. S. after the chaotic withdrawal of American troops in 2021. This withdrawal allowed the Taliban to regain control of Afghanistan. Lakanwal and his family settled in Washington State. The U. S. government justified bringing Lakanwal to the country due to his past work with American forces, including the C. I. A. However, some officials now question whether he should have been allowed entry. The C. I. A. director, John Ratcliffe, stated that Lakanwal “should have never been allowed to come here. ” This case raises important questions about the vetting process for refugees, especially those with ties to controversial military units. It also highlights the challenges faced by individuals who have experienced trauma and violence in war zones.