The Ahmedabad Crime Branch has detained a Syrian national accused of being part of a gang that allegedly raised funds from mosques in Gujarat under the pretext of helping Gaza war victims. Authorities claim the money was instead used to finance the gang members’ personal luxuries.
The accused, identified as Ali Meghat Al-Azhar, was arrested while three of his accomplices remain at large. Police said the group had entered India on tourist visas, violating visa norms while engaging in activities deemed a potential threat to national security.
Gang Misused Humanitarian Cause for Personal Gains
According to police officials, the gang collected donations by appealing to religious institutions and worshippers with claims that the money would be directed to humanitarian relief in Gaza. However, preliminary interrogation revealed that the funds were diverted for personal indulgences.
The Crime Branch stressed that such fraudulent activity not only misleads genuine donors but also raises concerns about the misuse of funds for illegal or anti-national purposes. An official stated that the involvement of foreign nationals in these kinds of fundraising operations poses a significant risk to India’s internal security.
Central and State security agencies have launched investigations to determine the wider network and motive behind the operation. Officials are also examining whether the funds had any links to extremist groups or transnational channels.
Blacklisting and Deportation Underway
Following the arrest, authorities have initiated the process to blacklist and deport the accused. The Crime Branch is coordinating with central agencies to ensure that similar foreign nationals exploiting India’s visa system for unlawful purposes are identified and dealt with promptly.
The case highlights growing concerns around the misuse of India’s tourist visa regime by individuals engaging in illicit activities, often under the guise of humanitarian causes. Police said the absconding members of the gang are being tracked and their details have been shared with immigration authorities.
