Detroit Docs Charged in FGM Conspiracy Targeting Minors

DETROIT, MI – A Detroit-area physician and his wife are facing federal charges today, accused of participating in a disturbing conspiracy to perform female genital mutilation (FGM) on young girls. Fakhruddin Attar, M.D., 53, and his wife, Farida Attar, 50, both of Livonia, Michigan, were arrested this morning and charged by criminal complaint.

The Justice Department alleges the Attars conspired to carry out FGM procedures at Fakhruddin Attar’s medical clinic in Livonia. Investigators believe some of the victims traveled from out of state to undergo the horrific practice. The complaint details that the procedures were allegedly performed on girls as young as six to eight years old – a brutal violation of their bodies and basic human rights.

The arrests were announced jointly by Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel L. Lemisch of the Eastern District of Michigan, Special Agent in Charge David P. Gelios of the FBI’s Detroit Division and Special Agent in Charge Steve Francis of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) Detroit Field Office. This isn’t an isolated incident; the Attars are alleged to have worked alongside Jumana Nagarwala, M.D., who was previously arrested in Detroit on April 12, 2017, and remains detained pending trial.

If convicted, the Attars and Nagarwala could become the first individuals prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. 116, the federal law specifically criminalizing FGM. The investigation, led by the FBI’s Detroit Division and HSI, with support from the Livonia Police Department and various DOJ divisions, has shed light on a hidden network allegedly facilitating these barbaric acts. The investigation is ongoing and authorities believe more victims may come forward.

Both Fakhruddin Attar and Farida Attar are scheduled to appear in federal court in Detroit this afternoon. It’s crucial to remember that a criminal complaint is merely an accusation, and both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. However, the evidence suggests a deliberate and callous disregard for the well-being of vulnerable children.

The FBI is urging anyone with information related to this case, or the illegal practice of FGM, to come forward. A dedicated tip line has been established at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5984). Information can also be submitted electronically at FBI.GOV/FGM. Deputy Chief Sara Woodward of the Eastern District of Michigan, Fraud Section Assistant Chief Nick Surmacz, and Trial Attorneys Amy Markopoulos and Malisa Dubal are prosecuting the case.