Web Desk
A Houston businessman and Afghan war veteran was fatally stabbed inside his office in what prosecutors describe as an attack fueled by frustration over refugee status delays.
Abdul Rahman Niazi, 34, died Wednesday after suffering more than 20 stab wounds at his business, Hewad Multiservices, located on Harwin Drive in southwest Houston.
Authorities arrested Masiullah Sahil, 37, an Afghan refugee, and charged him with murder. Prosecutors revealed that security footage showed Sahil entering and exiting the office multiple times. On his final exit, he was reportedly covered in blood.
When police arrested Sahil, they found him in possession of Niazi’s phone and noticed blood on his shoes. Prosecutors say he later called Niazi’s cousin to apologize.
First responders arrived at the scene around 6 p.m. and found Niazi’s body with deep stab wounds to his stomach, neck, and legs.
During questioning, Sahil allegedly admitted to the attack, saying he was frustrated with the slow approval process of his refugee application. He claimed an argument escalated, leading him to retrieve a knife from his car before fatally stabbing Niazi.
Hewad Multiservices assists clients with immigration paperwork, including asylum and refugee applications, according to its website.
Niazi, who lost both legs while working as a translator in Afghanistan, moved to the U.S. to rebuild his life. His family describes him as a pillar of the Afghan community, dedicated to helping refugees.
He is survived by his wife and five young children, all under 10 years old.
Sahil, who has lived in Houston for several years and worked as a rideshare driver, appeared in court with a translator.
A magistrate judge set his bond at $750,000, and he is scheduled to appear in district court on Monday.
