BAMAKO, MALI — Authorities in Bamako have arrested a self-proclaimed herbalist on charges of fraud after his high-priced spiritual intervention failed to secure a victory for Mali’s national football team in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The suspect, identified as Mr. Sinayogo, reportedly collected over 22 million CFA francs (approximately €33,500) in donations from supporters, promising that his rituals would guarantee Mali the championship title. However, the dream ended abruptly on Friday when Mali was defeated 1-0 and eliminated in the quarter-finals by Senegal.
The fallout from the match was immediate. Following the final whistle, an angry mob descended upon Sinayogo’s residence, seeking accountability for the lost funds and the failed prophecy. Police intervened to prevent the situation from escalating, taking Sinayogo into custody on Saturday.
A social media content creator close to the suspect expressed surprise at his sudden career shift, noting that Sinayogo was previously known for his political engagement.
“He proclaimed himself a marabout overnight and made a fortune,” the associate remarked.
Sinayogo is currently being held at the cybercrime division in the Malian capital. Officials have made it clear that while spiritual practices are common, using them to solicit large sums under false pretenses crosses a legal line.
“Charlatanism is punishable by law in Mali,” an official from the cybercrime division told AFP.
The official also noted the strategic timing of the arrest, explaining that moving against the man while the tournament was still underway would have been a volatile move. “Arresting him in the heat of the Africa Cup of Nations would have been difficult,” he added.
As the investigation continues, the case has sparked a wider conversation in Mali regarding the intersection of sports, faith, and financial exploitation.
Credit: AFP
