Case registered against Kerala trust for collecting donations via fake QR codes

The Mukkam police station in Kerala has registered a case against the chairman of the Shri Lakshmi Charitable Trust. The chairman of this trust, which operates for religious and social causes, is accused of obtaining donation money by creating fake QR codes in the name of children suffering from a disease called Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). According to a report by The Hindu, the police have filed a case of cheating under Section 318 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Mukkam Sub-Inspector Nirmala stated that the bank account linked to the QR code used to collect the funds has been frozen. The police are now conducting a detailed investigation to determine if the defrauded money has been transferred to any other accounts. An investigation is also underway into the means used to carry out this fraud.

Meanwhile, office-bearers of a committee formed to help children suffering from SMA have welcomed the police action. Committee members stated that the timely registration of this case will help prevent such incidents in the future. They warned the public not to trust fund-raising appeals made without the knowledge or authorisation of the relevant committees. They also requested people to verify the authenticity of any campaign before donating.

Committee members have appealed to the general public to remain vigilant against fraud committed in the name of children suffering from serious illnesses. The committee stated that if anyone encounters such suspicious appeals or transactions, voluntary donors should seek police assistance.

Shri Lakshmi Charitable Trust was a charitable organisation operating in the Mumpatta area, known for various social works.