Ajman Police have arrested two men accused of duping a number of people out of money while claiming to practise witchcraft.
Investigations began after several people reported to police that they had been conned out of money by the two Arab men.
The men are said to have told victims that they could perform rituals to help solve their problems. They charged fees for the purported services.
Lt Col Ahmed Al Nuaimi, director of the Criminal Investigations Department at Ajman Police, said his team planned a sting operation to catch the pair in the act.
An undercover officer contacted the men, agreed to pay Dh10,000 ($2,720) for their services and arranged to meet them at a hotel in Ajman.
The men had items such as documents, oils and a book in their possession when they were detained by police. Officers said the men were also dressed in unusual clothing.
The accused have been referred to prosecutors for legal proceedings.
Ajman Police warned the public not to be taken in by fraudsters claiming to use witchcraft to solve their problems.
Lt Col Al Nuaimi called on members of the public to report any incidents of people advertising services related to witchcraft or sorcery to the police.
Dubai customs seize items associated with black magic: in pictures
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In the past three years, Dubai Customs seized more 68kg of items associated with black magic, including talismans, amulets, animal skins, bones and blood. -
Dubai Customs officers seized animal hair, bones and drawings, pieces of metal, rings and books of magic techniques. -
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Dubai Customs officers confiscated knives and needles associated with sorcery and vials of animal blood and other liquids.
