Investigation Underway Into Rahmanullah Lakanwal Suspected Of Attacking National Guard Near White House

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Authorities have identified the suspect in the Nov. 26 shooting near the White House that critically injured two members of the West Virginia National Guard as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal. Authorities have characterized the incident as a possible act of terrorism, and the investigation continues.

Lakanwal Arrived in the US Under Resettlement

Lakanwal is reported to have arrived in the United States in September 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, which was a resettlement program for Afghans fleeing the country after the US withdrawal.

At the time of the attack, he had been living in Bellingham, Washington, and was working with a delivery service. Sources at the federal level, however, say that while his identity has been confirmed, other details of his background are still being cross-checked.

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Targeted Ambush Near White House Leaves Injured

The shooting happened a few blocks from the White House, near the Farragut West Metro Station, where National Guard soldiers were patrolling the area. Law enforcement said it was a ‘targeted ambush’ of the guards by the suspect, who opened fire on the guards before being shot and taken into custody. Both soldiers suffered critical injuries and were hospitalized.

FBI Investigates Shooting As Possible Terrorism Case

The FBI and local authorities treat the case as a suspected terrorist act. Police are studying surveillance video, interviewing eyewitnesses, and analyzing other forensic evidence to determine whether Lakanwal acted alone or had external support.

So far, officials have not confirmed a motive, though unverified reports suggested that the attacker yelled out religious slogans during the shooting. The incident raises questions about the vetting of Afghan evacuees who were allowed into the country under Operation Allies Welcome.

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After the shooting, US immigration officials temporarily halted some Afghan immigration requests. In reaction to the incident, security was immediately tightened around the White House and other federal buildings.

Could Lakanwal Have Accomplices Or Motives?

The shooting has sparked debate in US political circles regarding immigration policies and the presence of Afghan nationals in sensitive areas. The president and officials have emphasized the importance of ongoing investigations to fully understand Lakanwal's motives and potential affiliations.

No additional suspects have been publicly identified as of now. Authorities continue to monitor the developments closely as they piece together Lakanwal's movements and potential connections leading up to the attack; updates are expected in the coming days.

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