The murder of Ibrahim Harmoush, head of the "Inji Charity Association"—established as a licensed organization in Idlib and operating throughout Syria at the end of last year—in his office in Homs three weeks ago, has transformed from a mysterious criminal case—still under investigation to determine whether it was a suicide—into a large-scale fraud case involving $5 million.
The intricacies of a complex financial network are gradually being uncovered, one that exploited charitable work as a cover for massive fraud operations totaling approximately $5 million. These operations involved acquiring large quantities of sheep and foodstuffs using the association's official seals and receipts, without paying the original owners.
The threads of the case began to unravel when Ibrahim Harmoush, in his capacity as head of the association, purchased large quantities of sheep and foodstuffs from the local market using official contracts and receipts issued by the association, with a total value exceeding $5 million.
The sellers were eagerly awaiting payment of the agreed-upon sums, but his death in his office prevented any immediate settlement.
Human rights testimonies and lawyers following the case file stated that the initial investigations are surrounded by multiple question marks, especially after it was proven that the purchased goods were not used in the humanitarian or service activities of the association, but rather were diverted towards illegal trade and personal speculation.
Zaman Al Wasl
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