Fraud case in Wilhelmshaven: appeal for donations after fire exposed as a trap!

Fraud case in Wilhelmshaven: appeal for donations after fire exposed as a trap!

In Wilhelmshaven, the shock of a tragic fire in which a four-year-old child lost his life is still palpable. The incident happened two and a half weeks ago, on June 23rd, on Marktstrasse. The fire broke out in the early hours of the morning in a vacant toy store when trash in the entrance area burst into flames. The fire brigade was able to prevent the flames from spreading to neighboring houses and rescued several residents, including a family with four adults and four children. Tragically, a four-year-old child died as a result of the fire, while other family members and neighbors were injured, some seriously.

The public's sympathy was great and numerous fundraising campaigns were launched to support the affected family. In this context, the “Africa Union” association discovered that a suspicious donation campaign had been launched on the “Gofundme” platform, which had been initiated without the consent of the family. The members of the association then filed a complaint, which prompted the police to publicly warn against the fundraising appeal in question. It is suspected that the suspected fraudsters posed as members of the victim's family and thus collected a total of over 10,000 euros.

Fraudsters before the law

Investigations have been initiated against two people from Wilhelmshaven who are suspected of being behind this fraudulent operation. The Oldenburg public prosecutor's office requested a search of an apartment in the Neuengroden district, which took place last week. As a result, the police urgently warned the population about such scams, which often occur in emergencies. In order to make it easier to identify such requests for donations, the State Criminal Police Office provided information on how to identify false campaigns. Serious fundraising campaigns are usually carried out by registered associations or organizations with recognized donation seals.

At the same time, the investigation into the fire is in full swing, as the public prosecutor's office is also investigating homicide. According to initial findings, it could be arson. The police have set up a tip portal to collect information from the public, particularly photos or videos taken on the night of the fire. One man has already been questioned but not arrested; the initial suspicion against him still exists. Under German criminal law, arson is one of the most dangerous crimes that can be punished with high minimum penalties, especially if it results in deaths or serious injuries.

Public safety in focus

The incidents in Wilhelmshaven shed light on the importance of people being careful when supporting emergency relief efforts. False appeals for donations not only damage the victims, but also the public's trust in relief efforts. It remains to be hoped that the ongoing investigation will clarify both the causes of the fire and the background to the donation fraud. The public continues to be called upon to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity immediately. These incidents make it clear that good things can sometimes appear in a dim light - especially after such a tragic event.