Funds allegedly solicited for fake police publication, Oakville man arrested, charged

An Oakville man who allegedly solicited funds for a fake police magazine for over 12 years has been arrested and charged on Monday (Oct. 2).

Police allege the man was selling advertisements in a fake publication called ‘Ontario Police Public Safety News’ between April 2011 and May 2023.

Police also allege that business owners were told that the magazine was widely distributed across the province and that the funds raised by the sale of ads in the magazine would be donated to community and educational programs for kids.

“The magazine was not widely distributed. The community programs do not exist,” the Toronto Police service said in a media release. “Victims involved believed the accused was affiliated with police services, due to the name of the magazine.”

Azher Hyder, 58, has been arrested and charged with one count of fraud over $5,000.

Hyder is set to make his first appearance at the Ontario Court of Justice on Nov. 10.

Toronto police are asking anyone who believes they may have been an alleged victim of Hyder to contact them at 416-808-7300 or by email at [email protected]. Tips can also be given anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 416-222-8477 or at www.222tips.com.