By Crystal Ugoeze
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested five suspected herbalists and recovered large consignments of counterfeit foreign currency valued at $3.43 million and €280,000 in Osun and Lagos States.
The suspects—Akingbola Omotayo, Adeola Funsho Ogunrinde, Yahaya Amodu, Kubratu Babalola Olaitan (female), and Familola Sunday Olaitan—were arrested on December 7 and 8, 2025, at their shrines following sustained surveillance and intelligence gathering on their alleged fraudulent activities.
According to the EFCC, the suspects are accused of defrauding a victim, Halima Sanni, of ₦26.55 million under the guise of offering spiritual cleansing and remedies for various ailments. Investigations revealed that the syndicate allegedly lured unsuspecting victims with claims of possessing supernatural powers to conjure foreign currency, which they said required spiritual cleansing by a “genie” through sacrifices before it could be spent.
The suspects allegedly hypnotized their victims and persuaded them to provide money purportedly needed to carry out the sacrifices. During the operation, EFCC operatives also recovered two exotic vehicles and mobile phones from the suspects.
The Commission stated that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.