Fake charity collectors arrested in Baghdad’s Karkh district, police say

BAGHDAD – Baghdad’s Karkh police on Tuesday arrested four people accused of impersonating members of a charitable organization and soliciting donations from residents without authorization.

In a statement, police said the arrests were carried out by Shoula emergency patrol units in coordination with the Shihab al-Tamimi police station.

The suspects were observed collecting money under the pretense of helping people in need and claimed to be affiliated with a non-governmental charity, the statement said. Initial investigations found they had no legal status or official permit to carry out such activity.

Authorities said legal procedures have been initiated in preparation for referring the suspects to the judiciary. Karkh police added that efforts are ongoing to protect citizens and prevent fraud and other forms of exploitation.

Cases of impersonation have been reported repeatedly in Baghdad. In September, the Interior Ministry announced the arrest of a three-member gang in the Karrada area on charges of posing as security personnel and stealing money from citizens.

In June, police in Baghdad’s al-Shuala area arrested five people accused of impersonating members of a humanitarian organization and collecting donations from residents under false pretenses.