Somalian Accused Of Pocketing Benefits While Living In His Homeland

A pensioner accused of swindling over £38,000 in benefits while living in his Somalia homeland appeared in court for the first time yesterday.

Mohamed Qoomaal, 71, of Archery Close, Harrow arrived on bail at Uxbridge Magistrates Court.

He faces two charges of dishonestly failing to notify a change of circumstances to Harrow Council and the Department of Work and Pensions.

They relate to claims for housing benefit and pension credit respectively on dates between August 20, 2013 and February 22, last year.

Prosecutor Mr. Darren Watts told the court: “This gentleman has claimed over thirty-eight thousand pounds he was not entitled to while living out of the country for two-and-a-half years in Somalia.”

Due to the seriousness of the case the magistrates declined jurisdiction and sent Qoomaal to Isleworth Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on July 11.