The public is advised to exercise caution, remain vigilant and refrain from easily believing information or trust any suspicious donation activities without verifying its authenticity. This was following complaints received by the Department of Community Development from the public via the 141 Call Centre regarding a male individual who was reportedly collecting donations under the name of the Humanitarian Fund for Palestinians in Gaza 2023. The individual also claimed to be an officer of the Department and alleged that he had been instructed to solicit donations from the public.

The Department in its press release informed the public that the information is FALSE and it has no affiliation with the said individual, and has never instructed any individual or agency to carry out such collection activities. The public is reminded not to share personal details with any party whose legitimacy has not been confirmed.

The Department takes this matter seriously and reminds the public that the act of disseminating false or fabricated information with the intention of misleading others is an offence under the Public Order Act, Chapter 148, Section 34, which may be subjected to imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of $3,000, or both. For more information contact the 141 Call Centre.