Malian "Marabout" Arrested in Bamako After €33,500 AFCON Victory Fraud

Malian authorities have arrested a self-proclaimed traditional healer, identified as Mr. Sinayogo, for allegedly defrauding supporters of over 22 million CFA francs (€33,500). Sinayogo, a former political activist who recently transitioned into a spiritual figure, claimed his "supernatural intervention" would guarantee Mali the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy. The arrest occurred in Bamako on Saturday, January 10, 2026, just one day after the Malian national team was eliminated in the quarter-finals following a 1-0 defeat to Senegal.

According to an associate of the healer, the funds were amassed through significant donations from fans and "investors" who believed his claims of spiritual fortification. An official from the Cybercrime Division confirmed the arrest to AFP, stating that "charlatanism is punishable by law in Mali." The official further noted that while suspicions had been mounting, arresting the man while the national team was still competing would have been difficult due to the high emotions surrounding the tournament.

Sinayogo remains in detention at the cybercrime brigade as police continue to document the full scale of the financial exploitation.

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