The Ondo State Police Command has apprehended six individuals pretending to be pastors in a scheme to defraud unsuspecting residents in Idanre Local Government Area. Identified only by their last names—Fadahunsi, Kolade, Tijani, Iyanuoluwa, Arijesulola, and Ademola—the suspects were taken into custody following an intelligence-driven operation carried out on February 16, 2026. The operation, which involved tactical teams and Community Safety Officers, was initiated based on credible information regarding the fraudulent activities occurring within the local community.

According to the police statement, the arrests are part of a broader initiative to combat fraud and bolster community safety. The identified individuals allegedly conducted staged miracles to gain the trust of residents and exploit their belief in religious interventions for personal gain. This incident highlights ongoing issues of faith-based fraud in Nigeria, where some exploit religion to deceive and defraud vulnerable individuals seeking spiritual assistance.

The implications of these arrests signal the police's commitment to addressing the fraudulent practices that exploit faith as a means of legitimacy. By targeting such fraud syndicates, law enforcement aims to foster a safer environment for the community and discourage similar schemes that could undermine trust in genuine religious activities. The police's action may serve to educate residents on the importance of skepticism towards unverified religious figures, thereby promoting vigilance against fraud in the community.