A Burlington man is facing fraud charges after police say he promised Syrian refugees in Qatar sponsorship to Canada.
The Halton Regional Police fraud unit says allegations came to their attention through a community volunteer group in Toronto who had victims come to them through relatives now living in Canada.
According to police, the suspect claimed he could bring the victims into Canada through a local church under an immigration sponsorship program.
Investigators have identified eight families who allegedly sent funds to the suspect, with total losses in excess of $200,000.
Police believe there are more victims but given the logistical issues of victims living overseas, they have had to rely upon a local volunteer in Qatar to spread the word on the investigation and locate other victims.
Bashar Abdulahad, 49, is charged with eight counts of fraud over $5,000 and money laundering.