LAGOS/OSUN, Nigeria — The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested five individuals allegedly defrauding unsuspecting victims under the guise of spiritual cleansing and solutions to ailments.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale identified the suspects as Akingbola Omotayo, Adeola Funsho Ogunrinde, Yahaya Amodu, Kubratu Babalola Olaitan, and Familola Sunday Olaitan.
The arrests were made on December 7 and 8, 2025, at their shrines in Osun and Lagos states, following extensive surveillance and intelligence gathering on their activities.
According to Oyewale, the suspects, who operated as herbalists, allegedly defrauded one victim, Halima Sanni, of ₦26 million. Authorities also recovered counterfeit foreign currency totaling $3.4 million and €280,000 during the raid.
“They allegedly claimed to possess powers to conjure currency notes that required cleansing by a spiritual entity before use,” the EFCC statement reads. “Victims were hypnotized into providing money for these so-called sacrifices.”
Other items recovered include two exotic cars and multiple mobile phones. The suspects are expected to be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
