Afghan Man Charged in Deadly Shooting of National Guardsmen

A shooting incident in Washington, D.C., on November 26, 2023, has resulted in the death of a National Guard member and left another critically injured. The suspect, 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, faces a first-degree murder charge in connection with the attack. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem indicated that Lakanwal may have been radicalised after his arrival in the United States.

During appearances on Sunday talk shows, Noem stated, “We believe he was radicalised since he’s been here in this country,” highlighting the importance of investigating connections within his community. The shooting occurred just blocks from the White House, shocking many on the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Lakanwal entered the U.S. in 2021 as part of a large-scale evacuation effort initiated by the Biden administration during the chaotic withdrawal of U.S. troops and the subsequent takeover by the Taliban. As a resident of Washington State, Lakanwal is alleged to have driven cross-country to commit the attack, which has sparked intense scrutiny over the vetting process for Afghan nationals seeking asylum in the United States.

In response to the incident, officials from the Trump administration have pointed fingers at the Biden administration for what they describe as inadequate vetting procedures during the evacuation. “Crooked Joe Biden, Mayorkas, and so-called ‘Border Czar’ Kamala Harris really screwed our country by letting anyone and everyone come in totally unchecked and unvetted,” Trump stated in a post on his Truth Social platform.

Noem further elaborated on the vetting process, suggesting that while Lakanwal may have undergone some form of assessment after entering the U.S., it was “not done well.” This incident has led to a suspension of visas for all Afghan nationals and a freeze on asylum decisions, as officials reassess security protocols.

Before arriving in the United States, Lakanwal had served in a CIA-backed Afghan “partner force” unit that fought against the Taliban. This background has raised further questions about the effectiveness of screening measures in place for individuals with military ties.

As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to engage with Lakanwal’s family and community members to uncover more about his motivations and connections. The ramifications of this tragic event are likely to influence policy and security measures concerning Afghan nationals in the U.S.