This follows an investigation by the Charity Commission into the Afghan Poverty Relief charity, which started in 2011, following a referral from the Metropolitan Police to investigate concerns about the charity’s governance and management, and specifically to examine its finances.

The Afghan Poverty Relief worked to help and support those experiencing poverty, sickness, and distress. They also worked in the advancement of education and the preservation and protection of good health.

The inquiry found that the charity had been mismanaged and that this contributed to its ‘abuse for criminal purposes’ by two of its trustees.

Between August 2007 and January 2011, £254,310 worth of cash was withdrawn from the charity’s account and £215,810 was paid in cash into personal and business accounts belonging to the trustees. This resulted in a significant financial loss for the charity which prevented its income being used for activities which furthered its charitable work.

I