In Germany, a 33-year-old Islamic preacher using the alias Abdulhamid on TikTok and Instagram built a sizable following by sharing videos that framed Islam and Salafism in a relatable way. He mixed everyday language with religious guidance, weaving personal stories and contemporary references into messages that felt approachable while still rooted in tradition. As his audience grew, security authorities reviewed the material more closely, noting that some content could push viewers toward extremist interpretations. Over time, questions about influence, moderation, and the boundaries between faith-based outreach and political messaging came into sharper focus. Ultimately, the authorities arrested him on fraud charges after investigators linked donations to charitable causes with misused funds. The case illustrates how online personalities can shape beliefs while also engaging in financial deception, a pattern that has drawn heightened scrutiny from law enforcement across Europe and sparked debates about how charitable campaigns run online should be overseen for accountability and transparency.
Prosecutors allege that Abdulhamid raised more than €353,000 through appeals to support children in need and other charitable aims, yet only a fraction of that sum — less than €5,000 — was used for declared purposes. Police say the preacher, who already had a criminal history, embezzled the donated money and planned to flee to Dubai. Seven bank accounts were seized, along with €20,000 in cash, several Rolex watches, luxury bags, and a limousine. The case also involves his sister, aged 37, who is suspected of involvement in the alleged crimes. This financial trail highlights how donations meant for vulnerable beneficiaries can be diverted through coordinated schemes, raising questions about accountability and oversight in online charitable campaigns and prompting calls for stronger governance around donor funds and clearer reporting requirements for digital campaigns.
Earlier in Krasnodar, a blogger named Sidoropulo was detained on fraud charges. Local news reports attribute the arrest to allegations that he exploited online influence to solicit money under false pretenses, underscoring a broader concern about how social platforms can be used to mislead donors and profit from charitable appeals.