Police nab 6 pastors over miracle scam in Ondo

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested six pastors over alleged fake miracles in Idanre, Idanre Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed this known in a statement on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

Jimoh stated that the operatives of the command’s tctical teams, in collaboration with the Community Safety Officers (CSOs), carried out the intelligence-driven operation on February 16.

Jimoh said the arrest followed credible information about the activities of a suspected fraud syndicate operating within Idanre and its environs, adding that the operation led to the arrest of six suspects alleged to have organised and executed fraudulent schemes targeted at unsuspecting members of the public.

He stated that preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects posed as pastors and religious leaders, staging fake miracles and spiritual interventions, as a strategy to gain the confidence and trust of their victims.

EFCC operative testifies in UK trial of Alison-Madueke

Jimoh said the suspects allegedly exploited the faith, emotions, and vulnerabilities of individuals by promising divine solutions to financial difficulties, health challenges, and other personal problems.

The police spokesman said: “The suspects only defrauded their victims through various forms of obtaining by false pretence and related scams.

“During interrogation, it was gathered that the suspects operated in a coordinated manner, assigning specific roles to members of the group to create a convincing and structured façade of legitimacy.

“Further investigation is ongoing to ascertain the total number of victims, determine the financial magnitude of the fraud, and identify other collaborators who may still be at large.

“All suspects are currently in police custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigation.

“The command cautions the public to exercise due diligence and avoid falling prey to individuals who use religion, spirituality, or false promises of miracles as a cover for criminal activities.”

The Star