Syrian Gang Busted for Gaza Donation Scam in Gujarat
Syrian national arrested for extorting mosques, funding lavish lifestyle.
The Ahmedabad Crime Branch has apprehended a Syrian national, Ali Meghat Al-Azhar, for his alleged role in a gang exploiting mosques across Gujarat to collect funds under the guise of aiding Gaza war victims. The 23-year-old, who entered India on a tourist visa, was detained following a tip-off revealing the group’s fraudulent activities, which authorities say were used to finance a luxurious lifestyle rather than humanitarian aid.
The crime branch’s investigation uncovered that Al-Azhar and three accomplices, who are currently absconding, visited mosques in Ahmedabad, posing as Gaza conflict victims to solicit donations. “Such activities pose a serious threat to India’s internal security,” the crime branch stated, highlighting violations of tourist visa regulations. During interrogation, Al-Azhar confessed that the collected funds were diverted for personal extravagance, not relief efforts, prompting concerns about potential misuse for illicit activities.
State and central agencies are now probing the gang’s motives, with fears that the operation could be linked to broader networks. The crime branch has initiated blacklisting and deportation procedures for Al-Azhar, while a manhunt continues for his accomplices. Authorities are scrutinizing the group’s financial transactions to determine if the funds were channeled for purposes beyond personal gain, such as terror financing.
The case underscores the need for vigilance against fraudulent fundraising schemes exploiting humanitarian crises, as Gujarat police intensify efforts to safeguard national security.
Also Read: Ex-Sri Lankan President Arrested in Fund Scandal
Also Read: Thane Man Nabbed in ₹47.32 Crore GST Scam
