Crime

How Prophetess, teacher Charged for fake charm, N8m theft in Lagos

Published by Tope Fakinlede on August 13th, 2024.

How Prophetess, teacher Charged for fake charm, N8m theft in Lagos

On Monday, Folake Olasode, a 35-year-old prophetess, and Damilola Aboloyinijo, a 31-year-old teacher, appeared before a Lagos State Magistrate Court in Tinubu. They are charged with preparing a fraudulent protective charm and embezzling N8 million from their victim.

The pair face five charges, including conspiracy, theft, fraud, unlawful assault, and disturbing the peace, as laid out by the police.

According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Francis Igbinosa, the accused, whose addresses were not disclosed, allegedly committed the offenses in May 2024 at 7A Jide Agbalaya Street, Chevy-View, Lekki, Lagos. They are accused of deceiving Sarah Umeh by claiming they had created protective charms and performed ritual incisions on her and her three children.

The prosecution also alleges that Olasode and Aboloyinijo assaulted Umeh and her children with a razor blade, falsely claiming it was for their protection. Additionally, they are accused of creating a public disturbance by burning charms in Umeh’s compound.

The charges are said to violate Sections 411, 314, 287, 172, and 168(d) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State 2015.

Both defendants pleaded not guilty. Their lawyer, Moses Enema, requested bail, arguing they were first-time offenders. Magistrate Aderemi Gbajumo granted bail at N750,000 each, with two sureties required for each defendant. The sureties must demonstrate a stable means of livelihood and provide valid identification. Additionally, they must present proof of Lagos State residency, with verification by the prosecutor.