The Trump administration is accelerating a nationwide fraud crackdown aimed at foreign nationals who are alleged to have infiltrated U.S. federal programs. Federal investigators, including the FBI, have released a new “Most Wanted” list that spotlights suspects operating from abroad, underscoring the administration’s resolve to protect American taxpayers.
Defense procurement scheme targeting the military
Among those named is Onur Simsek, a Turkish citizen believed to be residing in Turkey. Prosecutors allege Simsek led a defense‑procurement fraud that secured U.S. military contracts by falsely certifying Turkish‑made parts as tested and qualified. The scheme allegedly involved a U.S. front company that, between April 2019 and February 2022, obtained contracts for Navy submarines, Marine Corps armored vehicles, Army M‑60 tanks and other equipment. Parts were reportedly manufactured in Turkey, repackaged to hide their origin, and then sold to the U.S. government.
General Services Administration (GSA) Administrator Ed Forst said, “Simsek’s alleged procurement fraud deprived taxpayers of value, denied honest businesses fair opportunity, and diverted critical resources from American warfighters. Under President Trump and Vice President Vance, GSA will continue working relentlessly to identify and hold accountable those who try to cheat the federal marketplace and steal from the American people.” The GSA Office of Inspector General is assisting the investigation.
Welfare program abuse linked to immigrant communities
The administration’s broader fraud investigations also focus on alleged Medicaid and child‑care fraud involving members of Minnesota’s Somali community. Vice President JD Vance described a “clear pattern” in an interview, noting that a single individual’s misuse can quickly spread within a community, leading to widespread exploitation of government benefits.
In a separate case, the FBI arrested Khalid Ahmed Satary, who is accused of a Medicare fraud scheme that billed more than $547 million for medically unnecessary genetic tests between 2016 and 2019. FBI Director Kash Patel praised the rapid capture of three top fraud suspects in just five weeks, calling it a “historic run of success” for the new initiative.
Rewards and ongoing efforts
The FBI is offering up to $150,000 for information leading to Simsek’s arrest and conviction. An arrest warrant for Simsek was issued in Tampa, Florida, in October 2023, and authorities continue to pursue leads worldwide.
These actions reflect the Trump administration’s commitment to safeguarding federal resources, ensuring that American warfighters receive reliable equipment, and protecting vulnerable taxpayers from fraud perpetrated by overseas actors.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
