Dubai Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Charity Fundraising Schemes
Authorities uncover fraudulent activities leveraging social media influencers during Ramadan fundraising efforts.
The Dubai Police's Cyber Crime Department has reported a rise in illegal online fundraising activities, particularly during the month of Ramadan.
Major Saeed Al-Hajri, director of the department, revealed that authorities recently apprehended an individual who was fraudulently collecting donations under the pretext of supporting charitable activities.
Investigations revealed that this individual had amassed significant wealth and acquired multiple properties in Dubai using the funds collected illegally.
The police also identified unlicensed non-profit organizations engaging in similar practices, often collaborating with social media influencers to promote their operations.
Al-Hajri explained in a conversation with the Arabcast platform that these unauthorized groups collect personal information from individuals known for their support of charitable causes, deploying targeted campaigns that lack proper legal oversight.
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (GAIAE) is the official body authorized to oversee charity activities in the emirate and has the legal authority to act against these violators.
However, they coordinate with the police to effectively compile cases and initiate legal proceedings.
Al-Hajri cautioned residents against responding to unlicensed fundraising entities, highlighting the potential risks including involvement in money laundering operations, where unsuspecting donors could inadvertently become part of illegal activities.
He mentioned ongoing investigations into various non-profit organizations that have violated the law and employed social media influencers in their promotional activities.
One specific case involved an individual of Arab nationality who set up a website with a noble-sounding name, recruiting several influencers to promote it.
This individual was able to collect donations over three years without the necessary permits.
Following investigations, the authorities took action, leading to the apprehension of those involved in promoting the website, thereby legitimizing its operations.
Major Saeed Al-Hajri, director of the department, revealed that authorities recently apprehended an individual who was fraudulently collecting donations under the pretext of supporting charitable activities.
Investigations revealed that this individual had amassed significant wealth and acquired multiple properties in Dubai using the funds collected illegally.
The police also identified unlicensed non-profit organizations engaging in similar practices, often collaborating with social media influencers to promote their operations.
Al-Hajri explained in a conversation with the Arabcast platform that these unauthorized groups collect personal information from individuals known for their support of charitable causes, deploying targeted campaigns that lack proper legal oversight.
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (GAIAE) is the official body authorized to oversee charity activities in the emirate and has the legal authority to act against these violators.
However, they coordinate with the police to effectively compile cases and initiate legal proceedings.
Al-Hajri cautioned residents against responding to unlicensed fundraising entities, highlighting the potential risks including involvement in money laundering operations, where unsuspecting donors could inadvertently become part of illegal activities.
He mentioned ongoing investigations into various non-profit organizations that have violated the law and employed social media influencers in their promotional activities.
One specific case involved an individual of Arab nationality who set up a website with a noble-sounding name, recruiting several influencers to promote it.
This individual was able to collect donations over three years without the necessary permits.
Following investigations, the authorities took action, leading to the apprehension of those involved in promoting the website, thereby legitimizing its operations.
Translation:
Translated by AI
