Justice Department Launches Largest Coordinated Denaturalization Effort

The United States Department of Justice launched the largest coordinated denaturalization effort in its history, filing 123 civil proceedings to revoke the citizenship of individuals who allegedly obtained it through fraud or criminal activity. Between July 20 and August 3, 2026, the department specifically initiated proceedings against 25 individuals from 17 different countries who are accused of concealing violent crimes, sexual offenses against children, and fraudulent identities.

High-profile cases include Narinder Singh, an Indian national 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 fraud and perjury. Another target, Murtaza Ali, allegedly used multiple aliases to secure immigration benefits. These actions align with the second-term immigration priorities of President Donald Trump, focusing on the deportation of illegal migrants and criminals.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the recent filings represent the beginning of a wider effort to protect the integrity of the naturalization process. Civil Division Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate described the action as a historic surge in denaturalization cases.