Malian Police Arrest Native Doctor Over AFCON Victory Scam

Malian police have arrested a man who claimed he could guarantee Mali’s victory at the Africa Cup of Nations, following allegations of fraud linked to the national team’s elimination. The suspect, identified as Sinayogo, allegedly convinced supporters to part with large sums of money in exchange for spiritual assurances of success.

Investigators say the self-styled marabout collected more than 22 million CFA francs from individuals who believed his pledge that Mali would lift the AFCON trophy. Confidence in his claims collapsed after the Malian team lost 1–0 to Senegal in the quarterfinals on Friday.

Anger over the defeat spilled into the streets as contributors reportedly stormed his residence, forcing security agencies to step in to prevent a breakdown of order. Police later moved in and took him into custody.

Sinayogo was arrested in Bamako on Saturday and is currently being held by the cybercrime unit, where he is facing fraud-related charges, according to local video reporters who visited the facility.