Fake QR code to divert charity fund: Case filed against trust in Keralam

The Mukkam police in Keralam have registered a case against the chairman of a charitable organisation named Sree Lakshmi Charitable Trust at Mampatta for allegedly collecting money using a fake QR code created in the names of children suffering from Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA).

The case has been registered under Section 318 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with cheating, the police said. The bank account linked to the QR code allegedly used for collecting the money has been frozen, Mukkam Sub-Inspector Nirmal said.

The police are investigating whether the money was transferred through other accounts and examining the various channels used for the alleged fraud.

Meanwhile, office-bearers of a committee formed to help SMA-affected children welcomed the police action, saying the timely registration of the case would help prevent similar incidents. They cautioned the public against responding to fundraising appeals made without the knowledge or authorisation of the respective committees. They also urged people to verify the authenticity of such campaigns before making contributions.

The committee members appealed to the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent appeals made in the names of children suffering from serious illnesses. They also called upon the voluntary contributors to seek police support in case of noticing any fraudulant appeals or transactions.