Justice Department Launches Record Denaturalization Surge to Revoke Citizenship

The United States Department of Justice has launched the largest coordinated denaturalization effort in its history, filing civil proceedings to revoke the citizenship of individuals who allegedly obtained it through fraud, perjury, or the concealment of criminal records. Between July 20 and August 3, 2026, the department initiated proceedings against 25 individuals from 17 countries, including India, Pakistan, Mexico, Colombia, Nigeria, Sweden, and El Salvador.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated the targeted individuals concealed disqualifying facts such as identity fraud, financial crimes, and violent offenses, including attempted murder and child sexual abuse. High-profile cases include 65-year-old Narinder Singh, who allegedly used two fraudulent identities to enter the U.S. in 1996, and Pakistani nationals Zia Murad Bhatti and Mohd Wasif, who are accused of identity falsification and perjury.

Since January 20, 2025, the department has filed between 88 and 123 denaturalization cases as part of an expanded effort aligned with President Donald Trump's focus on deporting illegal migrants and criminals. Data from TRAC indicates a significant surge in these lawsuits during May and June 2026 compared to historical averages. While some actions have already resulted in citizenship revocation, such as a case in Texas, immigration advocates express concern that the scope of these efforts may expand to include less serious violations.