Rohingya Refugee Dies After Release by Border Patrol, Sparking Investigation

Buffalo, NY – Nurul Amin Shah Alam, a 56-year-old Rohingya refugee from Myanmar, died on February 24th after being released by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in near-freezing temperatures. His death has ignited calls for investigations into the circumstances surrounding his release and the care provided to vulnerable individuals in immigration custody. Source

Timeline of Events

According to a timeline provided by the Buffalo Police Department, Shah Alam was released by CBP on February 19th at a Tim Horton’s coffee shop on Niagara Street in Buffalo. The agency stated they chose the location as it was closer to his last known address and considered a “warm, safe location.” However, the coffee shop was closed for the night, with only the drive-thru window open. Source

Video footage obtained by the Investigative Post shows Shah Alam walking through the parking lot of the closed coffee shop, wearing orange booties issued by the Erie County Holding Center. Source He was nearly blind, spoke little English, and had no money or phone. Source

Shah Alam’s body was discovered approximately six miles from the coffee shop, near KeyBank Center, on February 24th. A passerby called 911 after observing a man who appeared unresponsive. Source

Concerns and Investigations

Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan has described Shah Alam’s death as “deeply disturbing” and called for a thorough investigation. Source The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees CBP, maintains that Shah Alam showed “no signs of distress, mobility issues, or disabilities requiring special assistance” at the time of his release. Source

New York Attorney General Letitia James has announced her office is reviewing legal options in response to the case. Source Members of Congress, led by Representative Tim Kennedy, are also demanding investigations from both state and federal authorities. Source

Family’s Plea and Background

Shah Alam’s wife, Fatimah Abdul Roshid, and son, Mohamad Faisal Nurul Amin, shared their story publicly, detailing their escape from Burma (Myanmar) to Malaysia and eventually to the United States to escape persecution of Rohingya Muslims. Source They arrived in Buffalo in December 2024, hoping to reunite with family members still in Malaysia. Source

Abdul Roshid expressed her devastation, stating she was unable to observe or communicate with her husband during his final days. Source The family is seeking donations to cover rent, legal expenses, and to help bring other family members to the United States. Source

Prior Incident and Detention

Prior to his release by CBP, Shah Alam was arrested in February 2025 after becoming lost and entering a private residence. He was Tasered, tackled, and beaten by Buffalo police officers, and subsequently charged with assault and trespassing. Source His family chose not to post bail, fearing potential detention and deportation by ICE. Source

The case raises critical questions about the treatment of refugees and the responsibilities of immigration authorities in ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals. Source