An Iranian source told the Iran-focused Manoto News that Monis, known as Mohammad Hassan Manteqi in his home country, fled Iran in 1995 with about $200,000 entrusted with him by clients.
He had been the managing director of a tourist agency and had access to the cash to help about 50 customers apply for visas to visit western countries, the London-based site reported.
After arriving in Australia Monis campaigned to be granted asylum, despite an Interpol alert. His refugee status protected him from an Iranian extradition request alleging fraud.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/art...ran-fled-country-200-000-customers-money.html