Officials at historic spot warn of 'fake monk mafia'

BOSTON (AP) — Visitors to one of Boston’s top tourist destinations are being asked not to give money to what officials have dubbed “the fake monk mafia.”

Faneuil Hall Marketplace General Manager Joe O’Malley told The Boston Globe officials have received complaints about individuals “dressed in monk garb” who are suspected of being insincere in their fundraising efforts.

Visitors to the historic shopping district report being approached by people dressed in orange garments offering bracelets and asking them to sign a notebook before demanding a donation.

Signs have been posted reading: “Do not give money to the fake monk mafia!” and “These are not real monks” along with images of people dressed in orange robes.