Regulator probes Assyrian Church of the East charity over alleged ransom payments to Islamic State

The Assyrian Church of the East Relief Organisation is under investigation by the Metropolitan Police and the Charity Commission over allegations that it paid money to free hostages held by Islamic State. The claims, first reported by The Times, center on the release of 226 Christians captured in Syria in February 2015. According to the newspaper, ransoms were paid following fundraising efforts by the Bishop of Syria, Mar Afram Athneil.

The charity’s accounts for the year ending 31 July 2016 show that £147,689 was spent on “Iraq hostages.” The allegations suggest this money was used to secure the hostages’ release. However, a statement from the bishop to The Times claimed the funds were intended for humanitarian efforts after the hostages were freed. The charity has not yet responded to requests for comment.

The Metropolitan Police has opened an investigation to determine if terrorist financing offences were committed. NatWest is reported to have frozen £500,000 in the charity’s bank account as part of the police inquiry. The Charity Commission is also examining the organisation’s governance, though it is not a statutory inquiry. The commission confirmed it is looking into “serious concerns” about the charity’s activities overseas.

The charity’s most recent published accounts, for the year to 31 July 2017, show an income of £521,050. Its 2018 accounts are 45 days overdue. A spokeswoman for the Charity Commission stated that both the police investigation and the commission’s review are ongoing, and they cannot comment further to avoid prejudicing the cases.

The allegations raise questions about the charity’s financial practices and its role in humanitarian efforts. While the organisation has a history of supporting its community, the current scrutiny highlights the complexities of balancing aid work with legal and ethical responsibilities. As the investigations continue, the focus remains on the facts and the charity’s compliance with legal standards.

Source: Read the original report