Palma group accused of ‘healing powers’ fraud

THREE women and a man of Spanish nationality have been arrested in Palma accused of defrauding a couple out of €225,000 by making them believe they had healing powers.

The group, whose ages range between 40 and 50 years old, allegedly convinced the couple that their child was being chased by ‘shadows’ and ‘evil spirits’ who could cause him serious diseases or even the death.

To rid their child of these threats, the couple paid thousands of euros for several ‘healing treatments’ allegedly performed by one of the detainees.

To afford these treatments the family went as far as requesting money from relatives and applying for loans, leaving them completely bankrupt.

Police reported that the couple were completely influenced by the detainees and had to ask them for permission to take their child to the park, the beach and even the home’s balcony as they had been told an ‘evil shadow’ would find him and kill him.

National Police took six months to confirm the events and during a home search, confiscated numerous electronic devices, documents and three cars.

The suspects have been accused of fraud, money laundering and membership of a criminal gang. Police are also investigating a fifth person in connection with the case.