Complaint exposes alleged scam with promises of "miraculous cures" involving a Cape Verdean citizen in the diaspora

The complainant, who asked for anonymity for fear of reprisals and personal embarrassment, explained that she was going through a period of emotional and financial fragility, aggravated by health issues. It was in this context, she said, that she ended up believing the promises made by the suspect, who guaranteed a quick and effective solution to her problems, supposedly resorting to interventions "in the name of God".

According to the testimony collected by Bravanews, after paying the money and buying some miracle products, the promises never materialized. On the contrary, communication with the person concerned became scarce and, at times, non-existent, leading the victim to conclude that he had been the target of a carefully planned scam.

This case highlights the proliferation of individuals who, in the name of faith and religion, promise miraculous cures, spiritual solutions and the resolution of personal problems, especially to people in vulnerable situations. Sectors of society, both in Cape Verde and in the diaspora, have long been warning of this phenomenon, which takes advantage of the faith, despair and hope of the most unwary for financial gain.

Serious religious leaders, civil society organizations and even authorities have reiterated that faith cannot and should not be used as an instrument of exploitation. For many, practices of this kind not only amount to scamming and abuse of trust, but also tarnish the name of religion and call into question the credibility of religious communities that act responsibly.

In the Cape Verdean diaspora, where many face challenges linked to health, immigration, loneliness and economic difficulties, these schemes find fertile ground. Experts warn that promises of instant cures, guaranteed solutions to complex problems and insistent requests for money should be seen as warning signs.

The citizen who reported the case to Bravanews says she hopes her testimony will serve as a warning to other people, so that they don't fall into similar situations. "If I speak out, maybe other people won't have to go through the same thing," she said, stressing that the damage was not only financial, but also emotional.

Bravanews calls on the competent authorities, both in Cape Verde and in the host countries of the diaspora, to carefully monitor these types of complaints and step up awareness-raising and enforcement actions. At the same time, it warns the population: faith should not replace medical care, nor should it be a bargaining chip for dubious promises.

Cases like this show the urgent need for more information, critical thinking and denunciation, in order to stop practices that exploit human vulnerability and undermine people's dignity.