New York Man Indicted for Concealing Rwandan Genocide Role

Faustin Nsabumukunzi, residing in New York, is indicted for immigration fraud after concealing his role in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The Justice Department states he misled authorities when applying for a green card and U.S. citizenship. He could face a maximum of 30 years in prison if convicted.

A New York resident has been indicted for immigration fraud related to his alleged role in the horrific 1994 Rwandan genocide, as announced by the Justice Department on Thursday. Faustin Nsabumukunzi, 65, from Bridgehampton, New York, is accused of misleading authorities on his immigration applications, failing to disclose his actions during this tragic period in history.

Court documents reveal that Nsabumukunzi served as a “Sector Counselor” in Rwanda during the genocide, where widespread violence tragically unfolded. The Justice Department provided clarity on the brutal events, stating, “Between April and July of that year, members of the majority Hutu population persecuted the minority Tutsis, committing acts of violence including murder and rape.” An estimated 800,000 individuals, primarily Tutsis and moderate Hutus, lost their lives in these three harrowing months.

For nearly two decades, Nsabumukunzi apparently lived in the U.S. under false pretenses, ostensibly escaping the accountability for his past actions. Darren B. McCormack, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New York, remarked on the severity of the case, describing it as “the worst of humanity.”

The official release detailed that Nsabumukunzi did not merely witness the violence; he played an active role in the assaults against the Tutsis. Allegations against him include overseeing killings and establishing roadblocks to detain Tutsis. Notably, he was also convicted in absentia by Rwandan authorities for genocide.

Nsabumukunzi’s immigration journey began with a refugee application in 2003, followed by a green card in 2007 and naturalization requests in 2009 and 2015. Should he be found guilty of the charges filed against him, including visa fraud and multiple counts of attempted naturalization fraud, he faces a maximum of 30 years in federal prison.

In summary, Faustin Nsabumukunzi has been charged with immigration fraud for allegedly concealing his involvement in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. His role as a leader during the genocide is well-documented, and if convicted, he could face up to 30 years behind bars. The case underscores the commitment of U.S. authorities to hold individuals accountable for past atrocities and ensure that those responsible cannot escape justice through fraudulent means.

Original Source: www.upi.com