PHOTOS: EFCC arrests herbalists with $3.43m counterfeit notes

Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested five suspected herbalists over the alleged possession of counterfeit foreign currencies 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, and Familola Sunday Olaitan, were arrested on December 7 and 8, 2025, at their respective shrines following intelligence-led surveillance.

According to the EFCC, the suspects were allegedly involved in defrauding one Halima Sanni of N26.55 million. Investigations revealed that they reportedly deceived victims by claiming to offer spiritual cleansing and solutions to personal ailments.

The commission said the suspects claimed to possess supernatural powers to conjure foreign currencies, which they alleged required sacrifices and spiritual cleansing by a genie before the money could be used. Victims were allegedly hypnotised into providing funds for the supposed rituals.

During the operation, operatives recovered two exotic cars and several mobile phones.

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The EFCC stated that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

Source: Instagram | officialefcc