A self-acclaimed marabout has been arrested in Bamako after allegedly defrauding football fans by promising victory for the Mali national team at the Africa Cup of Nations
The suspect, identified only as Mr Sinayogo, reportedly collected more than 22 million CFA francs, about €33,500, from supporters after claiming spiritual powers would guarantee Mali’s success at the tournament. His arrest followed Mali’s 1-0 defeat to Senegal in the AFCON quarter-finals.
According to an associate, Sinayogo was taken into custody on Saturday in the Malian capital and is being held by the cybercrime division on allegations of fraud. Two videographers who visited him confirmed his detention, adding that arresting him earlier would have been difficult “in the heat of the Africa Cup of Nations” while Mali were still in the competition.
A social media content creator close to Sinayogo said the man was previously known as a political activist before suddenly presenting himself as a marabout. He said Sinayogo “proclaimed himself a marabout overnight and made a fortune.”
Mali’s AFCON journey ended on Friday in Tangiers after recalled Iliman Ndiaye scored in the first half to secure a 1-0 win for Senegal. Mali’s chances were severely damaged in first-half added time when captain Yves Bissouma was sent off after receiving a second yellow card.
The decisive goal came after a costly mistake by Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra, although he later produced several outstanding saves to prevent Senegal from extending their lead. Senegal, champions in 2022 and aiming for a third final appearance in four editions, will now face either Ivory Coast or seven-time winners Egypt in the semi-finals.
“I am happy to have won the player of the match award, but the most important thing is we have progressed to the semi-finals. We played well and are constantly improving,” Ndiaye said.
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw added, “It was not an easy match against a talented Mali team. Had we been more clinical in front of goal we could have scored more goals.”
Mali coach Tom Saintfiet said, “It was a difficult match for us because we had to play it with 10 men. I am proud of the players for what they did, not only tonight but throughout the AFCON.”
Bissouma had earlier been booked midway through the first half for fouling Senegal forward Sadio Mane, while Mali striker Lassine Sinayoko was later denied by a superb sliding tackle from Krepin Diatta.
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