The Delta State Police Command has arrested seven suspects accused of using hypnosis to scam unsuspecting people in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, shared the update on Tuesday in a video on X.com. He explained that the group usually approaches victims pretending to be lost and in need of directions.
“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,” Edafe said. “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, speaking in the video, admitted that the act was a “419 business” involving three key players called Cashama, Jejeti and Citama. He explained how each person played a role in deceiving and controlling the victims before taking their valuables.
Another suspect revealed that the group had made about N2.7 million from five victims using the trick.
One victim, identified as Fullness, narrated how he was targeted. He said a man approached him, pretending to be lost, and he decided to help.
“I entered their vehicle, and that was the last thing I remembered. I lost awareness,” he said. “They defrauded me of ₦2.5 million in cash, a phone worth ₦1.6 million, and another one valued at ₦400,000.”
Another victim, Daniel, said the gang collected jewellery and gadgets worth over N7 million from him.
Edafe advised residents to be cautious and avoid getting into vehicles or engaging strangers who act suspiciously, warning that such scams have become common in some parts of the state.
