Fake ‘Spiritual Healer’ Arrested for Swindling Tk 12 Lakh Through Ritual Fraud

A man posing as a supernatural “Jinn Master” has been arrested in Bogura on allegations of swindling large sums of money from unsuspecting individuals under the guise of spiritual rituals. The suspect, identified as Mahidul Islam, aged 35, was detained after reportedly deceiving a retired army officer and extracting Tk 12 lakh by drugging him in the name of exorcism and spiritual healing.

The arrest was confirmed on Friday, 5 December, by Additional Superintendent of Police (Media) Md Atowar Rahman, who issued an official statement detailing the operation. According to police sources, detectives apprehended Mahidul in a Thursday night raid in Sonatala Upazila, following a case filed earlier the same day.

Mahidul, a resident of Raniarpur village in Sonatala and the son of Tojam Akand, had allegedly been introducing himself as a “Jinn’s King” or supernatural healer for an extended period. Police say he used such fabricated identities to manipulate people seeking spiritual solutions to their personal problems.

Method of Deception

According to the police report, the accused exploited traditional beliefs in spiritual healing. He reportedly invited victims to partake in ritual sessions known as jhar-fook, during which he secretly mixed sedatives into food or beverages. Once the victims became disoriented or semi-conscious, he seized the opportunity to acquire large sums of money, both in cash and through mobile financial services.

The latest complaint was filed by retired Army Warrant Officer Mominur Rahman, who met Mahidul during an Islamic gathering at Mahasthangarh. Their initial interaction appeared harmless, but investigators say the accused strategically gained the victim’s trust before executing the fraud.

On 7 September, Mahidul allegedly lured the complainant to another location, where he administered a drug-laced meal under the pretence of performing a ritual to solve his problems. The victim was left in an abnormal state for hours. During this period, the suspect withdrew money through mobile transactions and coerced the victim into handing over additional cash, accumulating a total of Tk 12 lakh.

Evidence Seized

During the raid on the suspect’s residence, police recovered several items used to reinforce the illusion of spiritual authority. The seized objects include:

Two supposed ritual bones

Two containers of kohl (surma)

Three red cloths used in spiritual displays

Perfumed oil (attar)

Multiple amulets (tabeez)

White cloths commonly associated with spiritual rites

A framed religious picture (tasbeeh board)

Incense sticks

Black thread typically used for talismans

Investigators believe these items were used as props to create an atmosphere of mysticism and manipulate victims into believing in his supernatural abilities.

Confession and Legal Action

Police confirmed that Mahidul confessed during initial interrogation to committing fraud under the identity of a spiritual healer. Authorities have filed a case under relevant fraud and criminal deception laws at Sonatala Police Station. Further investigations are underway, and additional victims may come forward as the case gains attention.

The police have urged the public to remain cautious of individuals claiming supernatural powers, warning that such schemes often target vulnerable people seeking help with personal or financial troubles.