Operation Twin Shield Uncovers Massive Immigration Fraud in Minneapolis and St. Paul
A massive immigration fraud investigation in the Minneapolis and St. Paul region has uncovered widespread abuses, including marriage fraud, visa overstays, and forged documents. The operation, named 'Operation Twin Shield', was conducted over 10 days by federal authorities.
The investigation, involving multiple agencies, found numerous cases of immigration fraud. In one instance, a Kenyan national paid $100 for a fake death certificate to prove he was no longer married. Meanwhile, an individual and an organization separately applied to sponsor over 100 Ukrainians through the 'Uniting for Ukraine' program, raising suspicions of fraud.
Operation Twin Shield resulted in 275 suspected cases of immigration fraud following over 1,000 site visits. Nearly half of these cases showed non-compliance or public safety and national security concerns. In one case, an illegal alien allegedly exploited an elderly U.S. citizen through marriage fraud. USCIS issued Notices to Appear or referred illegal foreign nationals to ICE in 42 cases, with four apprehended.
The investigation highlights the need for robust measures to combat immigration fraud. The Biden administration has been criticized for releasing an illegal foreign national who later admitted to marriage fraud, underscoring the importance of stringent enforcement and oversight.
