The Ondo State Police Command has arrested six men who allegedly posed as pastors and duped residents of the Idanre community in Idanre Local Government Area through staged “miracles.”
The announcement was made on Thursday by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, Jimoh Kazeem. The suspects were identified as Fadahunsi, Kolade, Tijani, Iyanuoluwa, Arijesulola, and Ademola.
The arrests followed an intelligence-driven operation conducted on February 16, 2026. Operatives of the command’s tactical teams worked alongside Community Safety Officers to track and apprehend the suspects.
“On 16th February, 2026, operatives of the Command’s Tactical Teams, in collaboration with the Community Safety Officers, carried out a well-coordinated operation following credible information about the activities of a suspected fraud syndicate operating within Idanre and its environs,” the police statement read.
The operation reportedly led to the arrest of the six men, who are suspected of organising fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting members of the public.
According to the police, the suspects posed as pastors and religious leaders, staging fake miracles and spiritual interventions to gain the trust of their victims. They allegedly exploited the faith and vulnerabilities of residents by promising divine solutions to financial difficulties, health challenges, and other personal problems.
Investigators say the group worked in a coordinated manner, assigning specific roles to each member to create the appearance of a legitimate religious operation. The structured façade helped convince residents that the “miracles” were real.
“The operation led to the arrest of six suspects alleged to have organised and executed fraudulent schemes targeted at unsuspecting members of the public. Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspects posed as pastors and religious leaders, staging fake miracles and spiritual interventions to gain the confidence and trust of their victims,” Kazeem stated.
The police also revealed that investigations are ongoing to determine the total number of victims, assess the financial magnitude of the fraud, and identify any additional collaborators who may still be at large.
Fraudsters posing as religious leaders are not new in Nigeria, where religion plays a central role in society. Some individuals take advantage of the trust and faith of believers to swindle money or property under the guise of spiritual intervention.
In Idanre, the suspects reportedly targeted residents who were struggling with financial difficulties or personal challenges. By offering “miracles” and promises of divine breakthroughs, the men were able to convince their victims to part with money, gifts, or other valuables.
Police said such schemes can have serious emotional, financial, and social consequences for victims. They often rely on fear, hope, and faith to manipulate people, making it harder for victims to come forward.
The suspects allegedly operated in a structured manner, with each member assigned specific tasks. This coordination helped create a convincing illusion of legitimacy, according to preliminary investigations.
“The suspects operated in a coordinated manner, assigning specific roles to members of the group to create what he described as a convincing and structured façade of legitimacy,” Kazeem added.
Authorities are working to map out the full extent of the fraud and determine if other members of the syndicate are still active in the community.
The Ondo State Police Command has urged residents to exercise caution and due diligence, warning against individuals who use religion, spirituality, or claims of miracles as a cover for criminal activity.
“The command urges members of the public to exercise caution and due diligence, warning residents against individuals who use religion, spirituality, or claims of miracles as a cover for criminal activities,” the statement said.
Police advise residents to verify the credentials of religious leaders and to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.
The suspects remain in custody and are expected to be charged in court after the conclusion of investigations. The police have stressed that the arrests are part of ongoing efforts to combat fraud and maintain public safety in the state.
Authorities have called on Nigerians to be vigilant, especially during festive seasons or times of economic hardship when people are more likely to seek spiritual solutions to personal problems.
The Ondo State Police’s operation in Idanre is part of broader efforts to crack down on fraudulent activities that exploit religious beliefs. Police hope the arrests will serve as a deterrent to others who might attempt similar scams.
As investigations continue, the police are asking anyone with information about the suspects or similar cases to come forward to ensure that all collaborators are brought to justice.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of distinguishing genuine religious practice from criminal exploitation in Nigeria. It also underscores the importance of public awareness and vigilance in safeguarding communities against such schemes.
The Ondo State Police Command said it will maintain close surveillance in Idanre and other communities to prevent the resurgence of similar fraudulent activities.
The arrests of the six alleged fake pastors in Idanre serve as a reminder that while faith can be a source of comfort and guidance, it can also be manipulated by unscrupulous individuals for personal gain. Residents are encouraged to remain cautious and report suspicious activities promptly.
The case is expected to proceed to court soon, with the police assuring the public that justice will be served.
