New York(The COW News Digital) A Bangladeshi-origin software engineer has spoken publicly about what she describes as severe mistreatment by US federal agents in Minneapolis, saying she feels “lucky to be alive” after the encounter. The woman, identified as Aaliyah Rahman, shared her account in a recent interview, detailing the events that led to her hospitalization and detention.
Rahman said the incident occurred while she was on her way to a traumatic brain injury treatment center. Despite informing the agents that she was disabled and undergoing medical care, she alleges that masked federal officers forcibly detained her. “They dragged me like an animal,” she said, describing the experience as terrifying and dehumanizing.
According to Rahman, the incident took place just two blocks away from the location where another individual, Reni Good, was previously killed by federal agents. She said that knowledge of the earlier killing made her fear for her life and discouraged her from offering any resistance. “I knew I could not fight back,” she explained. “I just tried to survive.”
Rahman further alleged that during her time in federal custody, she repeatedly requested to be examined by medical professionals due to her condition. However, instead of being taken to doctors, she said she was transferred to a detention facility. Her condition reportedly worsened while in custody, and she lost consciousness at the center. Only then, she claims, was she transported to a hospital for emergency treatment.
The case has sparked renewed debate over the conduct of federal law enforcement agencies and the treatment of detainees, particularly those with medical disabilities. Civil rights advocates argue that the allegations raise serious questions about accountability, use of force, and compliance with medical and human rights standards.
Legal experts note that if Rahman’s claims are substantiated, they could lead to internal investigations and possible legal action against the officers involved. Calls are also growing for the release of body camera footage and official statements to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Federal authorities have not yet issued a detailed response to Rahman’s allegations. Meanwhile, community groups in Minneapolis and beyond are urging transparency and an independent inquiry into the matter.
Rahman says her decision to speak publicly was not easy but necessary. “I don’t want this to happen to anyone else,” she said. “People need to know what I went through.”
