WINDSOR, ON, March 30, 2012 /CNW/ - On March 29, 2012, as a result of a two month investigation, members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Windsor Detachment have laid charges against a Windsor lawyer for allegedly counseling individuals to misrepresent themselves to the Immigration and Refugee Board contrary to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
The investigation stems from information that was provided to police alleging that Windsor lawyer Sandra Zaher and her assistant, Diana Al-Masalkhi, were counseling individuals to make refugee eligibility claims based on fraudulent stories.
Sandra Zaher and Diana Al-Masalkhi are charged with one count of Counseling Misrepresentation, one count of Misrepresentation, under Sections 126 and 127 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, and one count of Fabricating Evidence, contrary to Section 137 of the Criminal Code.
"The RCMP is committed to pursue charges against those responsible for the fraudulent abuse of Canada's Immigration system", stated Sgt. Steven Richardson of the RCMP Windsor Detachment. He added, "We want to ensure that the integrity of our national programs are maintained"
Canadians are encouraged to report immigration fraud by calling the Border Watch Tip Line at 1-888-502-9060.
Sandra Zaher and Diana Al-Masalkhi will appear in Windsor court on April 26th, 2012.
For further information:
Cpl. Annette Bernardon
Windsor RCMP Detachment
519-948-5287 ext 255
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