Gaza's governor calls for calm as investigations into the misappropriation of donations progress

The Governor of Gaza province, Margarida Mapandzene, appealed for calm among the population in the face of allegations of misappropriation of donations intended for victims of the floods that recently affected the southern region of the country.

Speaking about the case, the official stated that she had recently returned to the province after completing a previously authorized trip, which is why she said she did not yet have detailed information about the investigation. Nevertheless, she assured that the competent authorities continue to interview those involved.

According to Mapandzene, at this moment the suspects benefit from the principle of presumption of innocence, and it is up to the judicial bodies to clarify the facts and determine the veracity of the accusations related to the alleged scheme of diverting humanitarian aid.

The governor also emphasized that, despite investigations indicating the possible involvement of her Chief of Staff in the case, the work environment within her team remains calm. She added that, to date, there is no evidence to support any claim of wrongdoing by the aforementioned official.

Ten public servants involved in the case

It should be recalled that a total of ten public servants were arrested last February, suspected of involvement in the embezzlement of donations intended for flood victims in Gaza Province.

Among those arrested are the then-administrator of the Xai-Xai district, the councilor for Administration and Finance of the local Municipal Council, and the director of the governor's office.

Of the ten defendants, four have already been released, two on bail and the other two under a Term of Identity and Residence.

According to the National Criminal Investigation Service, the suspects allegedly diverted various goods intended for flood victims, including 41 bales of used clothing, 63 sacks of cornmeal, 20 sacks of rice weighing 25 kilograms each, boxes of vegetable oil, two sacks of butter beans, packages of sugar, and mattresses.

Investigations are ongoing as authorities seek to clarify all aspects of the alleged scheme to divert humanitarian aid.