NEW YORK, NY — A Rwandan man living in Bridgehampton, New York, has been charged with fraud after allegedly concealing his leadership role and participation in the 1994 Rwandan genocide to obtain a green card and later seek U.S. citizenship.
Faustin Nsabumukunzi, 65, was arrested on Long Island on April 24 following an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Authorities allege that Nsabumukunzi served as a “Sector Counselor” during the genocide, overseeing violence against Tutsis and directing armed groups to kill civilians.
Key Points
- Faustin Nsabumukunzi, 65, was charged with visa and naturalization fraud for concealing his role in the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
- Nsabumukunzi allegedly directed killings and roadblocks during the genocide and was convicted in absentia in Rwanda.
- He faces a maximum of 30 years in prison if convicted.
“This defendant has been living in the United States for decades, hiding his alleged horrific conduct,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations New York acting Special Agent in Charge Darren B. McCormack. Officials allege Nsabumukunzi lied on immigration documents submitted in 2003, 2007, 2009, and 2015, falsely denying any involvement in the genocide.
According to court filings, Nsabumukunzi was convicted in absentia by a Rwandan court for his actions during the genocide, which resulted in the deaths of an estimated 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus between April and July 1994.
Court appearance and possible penalties
Nsabumukunzi faces one count of visa fraud and two counts of attempted naturalization fraud. He made his initial court appearance in the Eastern District of New York on April 24. If convicted, he could face up to 30 years in federal prison.
“This case is the epitome of HSI’s commitment to ensuring the United States is not a safe haven for human rights violators,” said Andre R. Watson, Assistant Director for National Security.
Authorities credited the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services with assisting the investigation that led to Nsabumukunzi’s arrest.
Officials vow continued efforts to hold human rights violators accountable
“This defendant repeatedly lied to conceal his involvement in the horrific Rwandan genocide while seeking to become a lawful permanent resident and citizen of the United States,” said U.S. Attorney John J. Durham. “For over two decades, he got away with those lies.”
The Department of Justice emphasized that it will continue to identify and prosecute individuals who commit atrocities abroad and attempt to hide those acts to gain entry into the United States.
No trial date has yet been set, and Nsabumukunzi remains in federal custody.