German Desk, Delhi Magazine: In a shocking case that has raised concerns about online fundraising and influencer accountability, a Germany-based Islamic influencer known as Abdel Hamid—real name Dehran Asanov—has been sentenced to three years in prison for orchestrating a large-scale donation fraud. The 34-year-old, who had cultivated a significant following on social media platforms through religious content, was found guilty of collecting nearly half a million euros under false pretenses and using the funds for personal luxury.
Between 2021 and late 2024, Asanov ran at least 37 separate fundraising campaigns through social media platforms. He claimed to be collecting money for various humanitarian causes, including helping Palestinian families, financing pilgrimages to Mecca, and supporting children in need. However, a lengthy investigation revealed that out of the approximately €497,000 raised, only a small fraction—around €5,000—was actually used for charitable purposes. The rest was spent on luxury items including Rolex watches, designer handbags, and high-end vehicles such as a Mercedes-AMG and a BMW worth over €70,000.
German authorities arrested Asanov in October 2024 after a raid on his home in Düsseldorf. Investigators seized large sums of cash, several luxury watches, and multiple cars. The arrest followed growing suspicion from the public and state authorities about the influencer’s sudden display of wealth, which appeared inconsistent with his claimed religious lifestyle.
The trial, held at the Düsseldorf Regional Court, began in June 2025. The prosecution presented a 600-page indictment outlining how the accused systematically misled donors over several years. The court found that Asanov had created a persona of a devout preacher in order to gain trust, emotionally manipulate his audience, and solicit donations without transparency or accountability.
Asanov’s partner, a 33-year-old woman identified as Leila M., was also implicated in the fraud. She had opened donation accounts, facilitated fund transfers, and allegedly enjoyed the proceeds. The court handed her a 21-month suspended sentence, taking into account her early confession and cooperation with investigators. Both defendants admitted guilt during the trial, which reportedly influenced the court’s decision to impose comparatively lenient sentences.
The case also drew the attention of Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, the Verfassungsschutz. Officials expressed concern over Asanov’s influence in spreading Salafist ideology online and the potential for radicalization through social media. Although the fraud case was focused on financial wrongdoing, authorities indicated that the ideological aspects of his content would remain under surveillance.
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The sentence handed down on July 16, 2025, is not yet legally binding, meaning that appeals may be filed. In the meantime, the German authorities are set to confiscate all assets obtained through fraudulent means, including cash and luxury goods.
This case highlights the urgent need for tighter regulation of online donation campaigns and raises broader questions about how religious authority and influencer culture intersect in the digital age.
