Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has nabbed five suspected herbalists in Osun and Lagos States over their alleged involvement in a fraud scheme involving fake foreign currencies valued at $3.43 million and €280,000, respectively.
According to the anti-graft Spokesman, Dele Oyewale, the suspects allegedly defrauded one Halima Sanni of N26.55 million under the guise of providing spiritual cleansing and solutions to various ailments.
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the EFCC nabbed the suspects – Akingbola Omotayo, Adeola Funsho Ogunrinde, Yahaya Amodu, Kubratu Babalola Olaitan (female), and Familola Sunday Olaitan – on 7 and 8 December 2025, following sustained intelligence gathering and surveillance on their activities.
“Investigations revealed that the syndicate deceived victims by claiming they possessed supernatural powers to conjure large sums of money, which they said required spiritual sacrifices and cleansing by a genie before the money could be spent,” Oyewale said.
The Commission stated that the suspects hypnotised their victims and convinced them to provide funds for the supposed spiritual sacrifices.
Items recovered from the suspects include counterfeit foreign currencies, two exotic vehicles, and several mobile phones, Oyewale listed.
The EFCC disclosed that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.