Egyptian blogger surrenders to police after alleged cancer scam raises millions

Donia Fouad raises EGP4m in fake cancer donations

Last updated:
Khitam Al Amir, Chief News Editor
Donia Fouad is accused of collecting up to 4 million Egyptian pounds through online appeals before surrendering following an investigation.
Donia Fouad is accused of collecting up to 4 million Egyptian pounds through online appeals before surrendering following an investigation.
Egypt Independent

An Egyptian blogger has turned herself in to police after allegedly raising millions of pounds in donations by falsely claiming she was undergoing cancer treatment, authorities said.

According to local media reports, Donia Fouad is accused of collecting up to 4 million Egyptian pounds through online appeals before surrendering following an investigation. Police had earlier detained her husband for questioning over the fundraising campaign.

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In a post on her official Facebook page, Fouad admitted fabricating the illness, saying she sought attention and acknowledged wrongdoing.

“I am mentally ill and need treatment. Please help me. I did this because I needed attention, and I admit I was wrong and deserve what’s happening to me,” she wrote.

She added that the public concern and support she received during the deception had provided her with psychological comfort, saying she now intended to seek professional treatment.

Authorities are continuing investigations into the case, which has drawn widespread reaction online.

Khitam Al Amir
Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor
With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public.​ Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.
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