Gaza relief efforts overrun by corruption, inefficiency
Although the Gaza Strip has received millions from the Palestinian government and international donors, many of those in need have not received any aid while others are cashing in more than they should.
RAFAH, Gaza Strip — A Gaza Ministry of Interior official told Al-Monitor that some relief organizations have stolen from financial and material aid intended to be distributed to Gaza Strip residents.
Ayman Ayesh, director of Gaza's General Administration of Public Affairs and NGO Department, told Al-Monitor that the department had uncovered a multitude of thefts. He said, “We arrested a member of an organization that had received special aid for the displaced, following complaints indicating that he was stealing from the organization headed by one of his relatives. The allegations were proven true following an investigation, and the thefts, amounting to half of the assistance received by the organization, were recovered.”
Ayesh cited the sale of aid, particularly medical aid to pharmacies, as one of several infractions committed by those administering aid. He also said price fraud was prevalent among those selling the goods received by relief organizations.
“One of the organizations that we audited registered exorbitant prices on invoices for low- and medium-priced goods bought for those affected,” Ayesh said.
