Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested five suspected herbalists over the possession of counterfeit foreign currencies valued at $3.43 million and €280,000 in Osun and Lagos states.
The suspects were arrested for allegedly defrauding a victim, identified as Halima Sanni, of ₦26.55 million under the guise of providing spiritual services. Those arrested are Akingbola Omotayo, Adeola Funsho Ogunrinde, Yahaya Amodu, Kubratu Babalola Olaitan, and Familola Sunday Olaitan.
According to the EFCC, the suspects were apprehended on December 7 and 8, 2025, at their shrines in Osun and Lagos following sustained intelligence gathering and surveillance linked to their alleged fraudulent activities.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly targeted unsuspecting individuals by claiming to offer spiritual cleansing and solutions to various ailments. They reportedly convinced victims that they possessed supernatural powers to conjure large sums of foreign currency, which they claimed required spiritual cleansing through sacrifices before the money could be used.
The EFCC stated that victims were allegedly hypnotized and persuaded to provide funds purportedly meant for the spiritual sacrifices.
Items recovered from the suspects include the counterfeit foreign notes, two exotic vehicles, and several mobile phones.
The anti-graft agency said the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
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