The recent actions taken by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have shed light on serious vulnerabilities within the vetting processes used for Afghan evacuees. Investigations revealed that several individuals, previously evacuated under Operation Allies Welcome, were arrested for serious offenses, including sexual battery, lewd acts with minors, and support for terrorist organizations. This troubling development prompts questions about the effectiveness of the vetting system put in place after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
ICE has reported that many of these individuals represent some of the “worst of the worst.” The findings follow a tragic incident in which a former Afghan evacuee allegedly shot two National Guardsmen in West Virginia, resulting in the death of one. According to a senior DHS official, the administration’s approach of “trust without verification” led to the current surge in crime involving these evacuees. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized the handling of the situation, stating, “When Joe Biden let 190,000 Afghan nationals in, they didn’t do criminal background checks.” Instead, the government relied on unverified claims.
Among those arrested was Qesmat Din Zafran, who faced charges linked to sexual offenses against minors, and Mansour Walizada, also linked to sexual battery and child fondling. These arrests raise alarm bells about how quickly the evacuation process neglected necessary diligence in background checks. Another evacuee, Mohammad Tabesh Rasoli, was arrested for serious traffic-related offenses leading to injury.
The report also highlights cases like that of Asirullah Khalid-Khan and Said Mohammad Tanai, both of whom have past convictions for serious crimes linked to sexual assault and violence. Compounding these criminal histories, Jaan Shah Safi, another Afghan evacuee, was apprehended for allegedly providing support to an ISIS affiliate, raising further questions about potential security risks posed by those permitted into the U.S.
Meanwhile, a separate case involving a student at the University of Delaware underscores the ongoing concerns related to security. Luqmaan Khan was arrested while in possession of a firearm, explosive materials, and notes suggesting intent to attack. His origins as an Afghan national, despite initial claims of Pakistani citizenship, were confirmed by Pakistani officials, adding to the unfolding narrative of how various individuals, including potential threats, entered American soil under the guise of refuge.
These incidents reflect broader concerns regarding the Biden administration’s immigration policies and the prioritization of expediency over thorough vetting. The implications of these lapses extend beyond individual cases; they highlight systemic weaknesses that could pose threats to national security. As investigations continue, the need for stronger vetting protocols becomes increasingly evident, emphasizing the importance of securing American borders while ensuring that all residents, both new and old, are safe from potential danger.
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