A religious leader has been arrested following an investigation into alleged charity fraud offences valued at $40,000 in Sydney’s west.
Earlier this year, officers from Campsie Police Area Command, alongside detectives attached to the State Crime Command’s Financial Crimes Squad, commenced an investigation into reports a religious leader had engaged in fraudulent activity.
During the investigation, police identified that the man had established a religious council and was collecting donations from community groups across Australia intended for overseas charities.
Following extensive inquiries, about 7am today (Friday 1 October 2021), police executed a search warrant at an address on Alan Street, Yagoona, where they arrested a 55-year-old man.
During the search, officers seized documentation relevant to the investigation, which will undergo further examination.
The man was taken to Bankstown Police Station, where charges are expected to be laid.
Investigations are continuing.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
