Malian police have apprehended a self-proclaimed “marabout” who allegedly promised that Mali would secure victory in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in exchange for donations, following the national team’s elimination by Senegal in the quarter-finals.
The individual, identified only as Mr. Sinayogo, garnered a following on social media by asserting his ability to foresee and influence Mali’s journey toward continental success.
In return for financial contributions, he assured supporters that the Eagles would lift the Africa Cup of Nations.
According to local sources quoted by Agence France-Presse, Sinayogo had collected more than 22 million CFA francs (around $39000) from fans convinced by his claims.
Following the defeat, an angry crowd gathered outside his home in Bamako, forcing police to intervene and escort him away for his own safety.
A senior official told AFP that “charlatanism is punishable by law in Mali adding that arresting him earlier would have been difficult while the national team remained in the tournament, given the emotional intensity surrounding AFCON.
Those promises fell apart on Friday night when Mali was defeated 1-0 by Senegal in the quarter-finals. The following day, he was arrested and held in custody by Mali’s cybercrime unit on fraud charges.