A fraudster who scammed families out of tens of thousands of pounds by offering them bogus Hajj packages has been jailed.
Mudassir Shaheen set up a fake ravel company with a name similar to a reputable firm which offers Hajj packages.
Using the reputation of the well-known firm, Shaheen secured advertising slots on a Muslim TV channel on Sky, promoting fake “all inclusive” Hajj packages.
He tricked 12 families from across the UK into paying money directly into his account, with each stumping up around £3,000 each.
Despite £36,000-worth of Hajj packages being booked and paid for, none of the families ever received their trips or were offered a refund. Many of Shaheen’s victims are understood to be elderly.
Shaheen lived in Bolton at the time of the offences. The 38-year-old, who now lives in Blackburn, was found guilty of multiple counts of fraud by false representation at Bolton Crown Court and jailed for 30 months.
Detective Constable Laura Watson said: “The pilgrimage to Mecca is a religious event of huge significance and one that all Muslims, if physically able to do so, must make at least once in their lifetime.
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“The impact, then, of this fraud on the victims has been huge. Many of them are elderly, or retired, and therefore will struggle to afford to pay for another trip with a reputable company.
“Others have expressed their sadness and shame that someone has exploited their faith and their trust in this way.
“Shaheen has been utterly shameless and unapologetic, refusing to plead guilty and taking this to a full trial, despite the fact that the money has been paid directly into his bank account.
“He then used that money to fund his own lifestyle, paying absolutely no regard for the welfare of the families as he spent their money on his own selfish needs.
“People cannot protect themselves completely from fraudsters like Shaheen, but there are steps that can be taken to limit the risk.”
Those booking Hajj are urged to speak to representatives from travel firms in person, and ensure the companies are ATOL/IATA registered.
