By: Zainudin Zidane)*
The revelations of a terror network that uses charity boxes to raise funds proves that radical groups are constantly maneuvering around us. The public is also asked to be aware of this action because it has polluted the action of solidarity and people’s concern in helping others.
According to the results of one survey agency, the Indonesian population is claimed to be the most generous person, especially when the pandemic hit. When Corona first entered this country, there were various donations made by non-profit institutions and individuals. We should be proud because we are known as a generous nation.
However, the generosity of nature was followed by the risk of being exploited by unscrupulous persons. Like radical groups and terrorists who create charities and advertise on social media, to attract people’s interest. They are moved and donate, even though the money is not used for orphans, but is channeled to support radicalism and terrorism activities.
The Anti-terror Detachment 88 has arrested a terrorist suspect with the initials S in Lampung, from JI, and he is suspected of being linked to a radical group fundraising case. S has served in a charitable foundation and frequently makes donation announcements.
The Head of Operations Assistance for Densus 88 Kombes Aswin Siregar stated that the charity’s office had been closed during the investigation, as were its branch offices in various regions. His accounts had been confiscated and his assets secured, so their members could not tamper with them.
The discovery of this new mode of radical group is very surprising, because they have the heart to deceive the public, for the sake of misleading desires. How can terrorists seek donations for the poor and orphans, when they are used for bombing and other activities? Even though they know that lying is a big sin but are desperate to do it.
If the money collected from an institution with the modus operandi is used for the activities of a radical group, then it is clearly haram, because of the lies. It is very strange when those who claim to be obedient in embracing their faith but instead commit a grave sin, because of the ambition to make a caliphate state.
There is a lot of money used to finance terrorist groups. To make a simple bomb, it takes 850,000 rupiah. As for the plan for a major bombing, like what happened in 2002 on the Island of the Gods, it would cost 100 million rupiah. No wonder their eyes are covered with sin and then they dare to lie to finance radicalism and terrorism.
The public is certainly shocked because they feel they have been lied to and used by members of radical groups. At first they wanted to increase their reward, but in fact they were tricked, then they felt hurt. Therefore, we are encouraged to be more careful when making donations, especially when donating on the internet.
When someone asks for donations on social media, don’t just transfer, but investigate the legitimacy of the institution. See if they have a permit from the Department of Social Affairs, because it shows the legitimacy. In addition, check whether the agency has a real office, not just online, which may use fake addresses and phone numbers.
It would be even better if we donate directly, either to a charity box at a house of worship, an orphanage, or a valid charity. Giving online is indeed practical because it only takes transfer and confirmation, but don’t let this generosity be used by radical groups.
Radical groups were caught setting up fictitious foundations to raise public funds, but instead they used the money for terrorism and radicalism activities. We need to be vigilant and don’t just donate. Do your research before transferring money and check if the charity is valid or not.
)* The author is a contributor to the Press Circle and Cikini Students
