Polokwane – In a bizarre twist, three foreign nationals have been arrested in Polokwane for allegedly orchestrating a "prophetic" scam that involved the use of live rats and counterfeit money to fake miracles. The suspects, all Ugandan nationals aged between 32 and 37, are now in police custody, facing a range of serious charges.
The arrests, carried out on Wednesday by the Limpopo Provincial Tracking Team, followed intelligence reports indicating that individuals were soliciting money from residents under the guise of false spiritual pretences. The operation targeted a residence in Penina Park, where the suspects were found to be operating without valid passports.
Limpopo police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, detailed the findings of the raid. "During the search, officers recovered an undisclosed amount of counterfeit money along with five rats, which were reportedly used as part of the fraudulent activities. The trio was arrested on the scene.”
The alleged scam centred around the suspects posing as prophets or spiritual healers, promising miracles, financial breakthroughs, and healing in exchange for cash. Police believe the rats and fake money were used to create an illusion of supernatural power, convincing vulnerable individuals of their supposed abilities.
The suspects are expected to appear before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court to answer to charges relating to the possession of counterfeit money and violations of the Immigration Act. Police have indicated that further charges related to fraud are likely as the investigation unfolds.
Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has commended the swift and coordinated efforts of the Provincial Tracking Team in disrupting the alleged fraudulent scheme. She urged community members to exercise caution and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
Colonel Ledwaba reiterated this call for vigilance, encouraging residents to report any concerns to their nearest police station or to contact the Crime Stop number, 08600 10111.
The case has sparked considerable concern, highlighting the vulnerability of communities to scams that exploit religious or spiritual beliefs. The use of animals in the alleged deception has added a particularly unsettling dimension to the story.
Police investigations are ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone who may have been a victim of this or similar scams to come forward. The focus is now on uncovering the full extent of the operation and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.
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