The Trump administration is intensifying its efforts to target of foreign nationals accused of defrauding the U.S.government, as the FBI and other federal agencies pursue suspects operating from overseas.Last week, the FBI released a "Most Wanted" list highlighting alleged fraud suspects as the administration continues its broader crackdown on fraud.
Officials say the involvement of foreign nationals in multiple schemes has heightened concerns about overseas actors exploiting U.S.government programs.Among those named is Onur Simsek, a Turkish national whom the FBI believes is living in Turkey.
Prosecutors accuse Simsek of leading a defense procurement fraud scheme that secured U.S.military contracts by falsely certifying Turkish-made parts as tested and qualified, potentially rendering critical military equipment inoperable.Federal prosecutors allege Onur Simsek led a procurement fraud operation that infiltrated the U.S.
defense supply chain, prompting the FBI to offer a $150,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.(Andrew Leyden/Getty Images / FBI)FBI LAUNCHES 'MOST WANTED FRAUDSTERS' LIST AS DOJ CHARGES OHIO DEFENDANTS IN $30M MEDICAID SCHEME FOR KIDSFederal authorities allege Simsek is one of a number foreign nationals who have infiltrated and exploited U.S.
federal funds to obtain taxpayer funds.In a statement, General Services Administration Administrator Ed Forst pointed to Simsek's alleged conduct while discussing the administration's efforts to combat fraud."Simsek's alleged procurement fraud deprived taxpayers of value, denied honest businesses fair opportunity, and diverted critical resources from American warfighters," Forst said."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 FBI's new "Most Wanted Fraudsters" list is intended to help law enforcement locate and apprehend fugitives ac...