The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested five suspected herbalists in Osun and Lagos states over their alleged involvement in a large-scale fraud scheme involving counterfeit foreign currencies valued at $3.43 million and €280,000.
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the EFCC apprehended the suspects, Akingbola Omotayo, Adeola Funsho Ogunrinde, Yahaya Amodu, Kubratu Babalola Olaitan (female), and Familola Sunday Olaitan on December 7 and 8, 2025, following sustained intelligence gathering and surveillance on their activities.
According to the EFCC 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.
“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.
Recovered items 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.
