Police Arrest Seven Suspects Hypnotising Victims Under Guise Of Asking For Directions
The Delta State Police Command has apprehended seven individuals accused of defrauding people by pretending to seek directions.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, explained on X.com on Tuesday that the syndicate lures victims, hypnotises them, and makes off with their money and valuables.
“Have you ever come across people who pretend like they are looking for direction? Have you ever met a victim who they lured and ended up taking all their money, phones and jewellery? Watch till the end to find out their strategy, and please share for others to learn.”
In a video shared by the police, he added, “We’ve been hearing of this syndicate that usually acts in the guise of looking for direction and eventually manages to hypnotise their victims, lure them, collect their money, phones and even their jewellery. It is no longer a fairy tale because today we have about seven suspects who are very good at that, but the hands of the law have finally caught up with them.”
One of the suspects in the video described the act as a “419 business” that requires three persons called Cashama, Jejeti and Citama, respectively.
The suspect went ahead to explain the strategy they use in defrauding their suspects and the role of the three members in the scheme.
Another suspect added that the gang has netted about N2.7 million through this tactic from five victims.
One of the victims, identified as Fullness, recounted his experience, stating that he was approached by a man who seemed lost and was ignored by other people. He took pity on the man and agreed to help.
He noted that upon entering their vehicle, he lost all sense of awareness and was later defrauded of ₦2.5 million in cash, a phone worth ₦1.6 million, and another phone valued at ₦400,000.
Another victim, identified as Daniel, also explained how the gang collected jewellery and gadgets worth over N7 million from him.
The suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
