In a shocking turn of events, 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal is facing first-degree murder charges after the tragic shooting of two National Guard members in Washington D.C. on 26 November 2024. This assault, which left one guardsman dead and another critically wounded, has sparked serious discussions about security vetting and immigration policies.
Details of the Incident
Lakanwal reportedly opened fire on a group of guardsmen just a few blocks from the White House—a site brimming with political tension given the timing just before the Thanksgiving holiday. Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old member of the West Virginia National Guard, succumbed to her injuries, while her colleague, Andrew Wolfe, aged 24, is currently in critical condition.
- Initial Charge: The attack escalated from initial assault charges to first-degree murder.
- Weapon Used: Lakanwal used a .357 Smith and Wesson revolver in the shooting.
- Legal Actions: Attorney General Pam Bondi has stated that the prosecution will seek the death penalty.
Background on the Accused
According to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Lakanwal was likely radicalised after moving to the U.S. in 2021 during the chaotic evacuation of Afghans following the U.S. military withdrawal. He was part of the CIA-backed Afghan “Zero Units” fighting the Taliban prior to his arrival in the United States.
There’s been an outcry regarding the vetting processes for Afghan nationals during this period. Officials have pointed fingers at the Biden administration for what they describe as “lax” vetting during the massive airlift.
Political Repercussions
The incident has ignited a firestorm of criticism towards current immigration policies. Former President Donald Trump has escalated his anti-immigration rhetoric, pledging to suspend migration from “Third World countries” in response to this tragic event.
- Trump noted: “We will permanently pause migration from all Third World countries and reconsider many admissions granted under my predecessor.”
- The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that all visa applications from Afghan nationals are currently on hold.
Community Response
Reacting to the allegations against Lakanwal, AfghanEvac—a group aiding Afghan refugees in the U.S.—has defended the vetting process undertaken for newcomers. They stressed that Lakanwal’s violent act should not define the entire community. “This individual’s isolated and violent action should not be used to tarnish all Afghans,” the group stated.
As the legal battle unfolds, this incident serves as a reminder of the continuing complexities of immigration and security in a post-war America.