Malian native doctor arrested for taking money to make Mali win AFCON

A self-proclaimed traditional folk healer, who promised victory for Mali at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, has been arrested for fraud after the team’s quarterfinal exit.

The man, identified only as Sinayogo, reportedly collected over 22 million CFA francs (€33,500) from supporters who believed his promises would secure the AFCON trophy for the Eagles.

However, Mali was eliminated after losing 1-0 to Senegal on Friday, January 9, 2026, prompting anger among fans who had entrusted him with large sums of money.

An irate crowd gathered at his home before police intervened and escorted him away safely.

CAF appoints Ghanaian referee for AFCON semi-final between Morocco and Nigeria

Sinayogo, formerly a political activist, “proclaimed himself a marabout overnight and made a fortune,” according to a social media content creator close to him.

He was arrested on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in the Malian capital Bamako and placed in custody at the cybercrime division, where officials confirmed that “charlatanism is punishable by law in Mali.”

Authorities noted that arresting him during the tournament would have been difficult given the ongoing competition.

Videographers who had previously worked with Sinayogo reported seeing him in custody, underscoring the swift action following the team’s elimination.



FKA/JE