Scott Richards, a British-Australian national, was released on Tuesday 23rd August from Muraqqabat Police Station after three weeks in custody. He was accused of using a website to promote fundraising for refugee camps in Afghanistan without permission from the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities (IACAD).
Those who involve in donation drives without permission and are found infringing the rules face jail terms. Funds should be raised through licensed societies, NGOs and should be gained with permission to do so by the concerned authority. The charity organizations licensed by IACAD should approve any fundraising, whether it’s money or objects. They’re also obliged to approve of the advertising of the fundraising. This UAE Charity Law is not laid down to put off residents from raising money for the people in need, but to monitor fundraising and ensure funds do not end up in the hands of the wrong people such as terror groups.
