2 naturalized US citizens disrespect legal immigration process by harboring illegal aliens

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - An Albuquerque couple and naturalized U.S. citizens, with no respect for the privilege they've been given to live in the United States are accused of conspiring with human smugglers, turning four of their rental properties into stash houses for human smuggling operations, and laundering what they believed to be profits from the illicit activity through a real estate deal structured to avoid detection for over two years.

If convicted, Nan Zhang, 44, and Sanjay Khurana, 62, face up to 20 years in prison, loss of their legal status in the U.S. and forfeiture of the properties.

"Zhang and Khurana are accused of preying on the vulnerable and exploiting them for profit, showing complete disregard for human life," said Jason T. Stevens, special agent in charge of HSI El Paso. "This case demonstrates our unwavering commitment to dismantle these dangerous networks, protect our communities from harm, and ensure that those who enable or profit from these crimes are brought to justice."

Zhang and Khurana are charged with conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and conducting unlawful financial transactions.

ICE Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, the FBI Albuquerque Field Office and IRS Criminal Investigation jointly investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department.

Read more at Justice.gov.