Five suspected herbal practitioners from Lagos and Osun states have been brought before a court over allegations involving fake foreign currencies worth $3 million and €280,000. The defendants were arraigned on multiple counts linked to possession and attempted circulation of counterfeit dollars and euros. Authorities say the case followed intelligence-led operations that uncovered the alleged fake notes.

Prosecutors told the court that the accused allegedly claimed they could “treat” or “activate” foreign currencies through spiritual means. Investigators, however, insist that laboratory checks showed the currencies were counterfeit and had no monetary value. The alleged acts were said to have occurred at different locations in Lagos and Osun states.

The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. Their lawyers asked the court to grant bail, arguing that the accused would not interfere with investigations and would be available for trial. The prosecution opposed the request, urging the court to consider the seriousness of the allegations and the value of the fake currencies involved.

The court adjourned the matter to a later date for bail ruling and commencement of trial. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies warned members of the public to be cautious of individuals promising spiritual solutions to “clean” or “convert” foreign currencies, stressing that such claims often lead to fraud and financial loss.