⏱ 2 min read
Miran Kostic, a 66-year-old national of Bosnia and Herzegovina, has been charged with attempting to fraudulently obtain US citizenship by lying about his role in abusing prisoners during the Bosnian war. The crimes allegedly took place in the Autonomous Province of Western Bosnia, where Kostic was a high-ranking official. He is accused of pistol-whipping, beating, and kicking prisoners, and ordering others to do the same. Kostic applied for US citizenship in Boise, Idaho, but allegedly lied about his past in interviews with the FBI and US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Kostic’s indictment alleges that he failed to disclose the true nature of his activities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including charges filed against him for war crimes. He is charged with attempted naturalization fraud and making material false statements to law enforcement agents. If convicted, Kostic faces up to 20 years in prison.
The case is being prosecuted by the US Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho, with assistance from the FBI and USCIS. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva stated that individuals who commit atrocities abroad and lie to immigration authorities will be investigated and prosecuted.
The US Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho is committed to ensuring that federal immigration laws are followed and enforced. US Attorney Bart M. Davis emphasized that citizenship is a privilege that must be earned, and that those who seek to obtain it through fraud will be held accountable.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: Idaho
- Location: ID
- Source: DOJ Press Release
