The Ondo State Police Command has arrested six suspected fraudsters over an alleged fake miracle scam in Idanre, in Idanre local government area of the state, as part of its ongoing crackdown on criminal activities across the state.
The State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Abayomi Jimoh, who disclosed this, stated that the suspects were apprehended during a coordinated intelligence-driven operation carried out by the Command’s tactical teams in collaboration with Community Safety Officers.
According to the Police, the suspects allegedly posed as pastors and religious leaders, staging fake miracles and spiritual interventions to deceive unsuspecting members of the public.
He identified the suspects as Fadahunsi, Kolade, Tijani, Iyanuoluwa, Arijesulola and Ademola.
Jimoh stated that preliminary investigations revealed that the group targeted individuals facing financial, health and personal challenges, promising divine solutions and collecting money under false pretences.
He explained that the suspects operated as a syndicate, assigning specific roles to members to create what authorities described as a convincing façade of legitimacy.
He said further that investigations are ongoing to determine the total number of victims, the financial extent of the alleged fraud and to identify other possible collaborators who may still be at large.
All six suspects are currently in police custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations”
The command urged residents to exercise caution and avoid falling victim to individuals who use religion or claims of miracles as a cover for criminal activities.
It also advised members of the public to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The police reiterated their commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations to ensure the safety of lives and property in the state.