Bamako, Mali – A self-proclaimed diviner has been arrested in Mali following allegations of defrauding citizens of millions of West African CFA francs. The arrest comes in the wake of Mali’s elimination from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign, sparking public outrage and prompting an official investigation.
The individual, whose identity has not been released, is accused of exploiting the fervent passion of Malian football fans. He allegedly used social media platforms to disseminate false prophecies, falsely claiming to possess spiritual powers that would guarantee Mali’s victory in the continental tournament. In exchange for these assurances, he solicited and received substantial financial contributions from hopeful supporters.
Sources indicate that the total amount collected by the suspect exceeded 22 million CFA francs. The alleged scam ignited widespread anger and disappointment, particularly after the national team’s failure to advance in the AFCON qualifiers. Numerous individuals filed formal complaints with authorities, leading to the suspect’s apprehension in the capital, Bamako.
Malian authorities have strongly condemned the exploitation of popular beliefs and superstitions for financial gain. Officials emphasized that such practices constitute a crime under Malian law and vowed to crack down on individuals who prey on the public’s emotions, especially during major sporting events.
This incident highlights the dangers of misinformation and deception in the digital age. The rise of fraudulent individuals preying on the hopes and dreams of sports fans underscores the need for increased public awareness and stricter legal oversight to protect citizens from fraud and exploitation. Observers are calling for enhanced education and legal frameworks to safeguard the public from such scams in the future.
