Burkina Faso: 12 Beninese nationals arrested in alleged fraud case

Twelve Beninese nationals were arrested in Gaoua, southwestern Burkina Faso, on October 21 and 22, 2026, over their alleged involvement in two fraud networks operating under the guise of spiritual practices. The investigation began after a man complained that he had paid 185,000 CFA francs to people posing as traditional healers, who allegedly then demanded an additional 800,000 CFA francs and threatened him. The groups sold rings and amulets as good-luck charms in villages and gold-mining sites, then directed victims to fake spiritual leaders who offered costly rituals. Three suspects were arrested from the first group and nine others in Tielkan; the total financial damage remains undetermined, and the suspects are due to be presented to the prosecutor in Gaoua.