From Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto
The Sokoto Police Command on Friday, 19 December, 2025 paraded Muhammad Sai Malam also known as Mai Aljanar Kuddi for allegedly being the leader and chief priest of a money ritual cult group in Sokoto State.
The command also paraded another young man who allegedly under pretences of being a local vigilante arrested girls, had carnal knowledge of them, recorded same and used the video as weapon of control.
Addressing reporters at the State Command, Sokoto Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Musa, said the breakthrough was part of their intensified efforts to restore peace, protect residents and dismantle criminal networks operating across the state.
Musa recalled that on 29 November, 2025, three members of the feared “Sai Malam” cult were arrested. Following renewed intelligence led operations by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the police successfully apprehended the group’s leader and chief priest, Muhammed Muktar, popularly known as “Sai Malam.”
A search of his residence, which doubled as a shrine, led to the recovery of a live python allegedly used for ritual activities, banners bearing the inscription “SAI MALAM,” and assorted fetish materials and charms. This development, according to Musa, will dismantle the dreaded cult group and bring to an end its reign of terror in several communities.
In another operation, Musa said the command arrested an alleged notorious serial rapist, Anas Sani of Gidan Igwai area, Sokoto, on 9 December, 2025, following a report involving the abduction and rape of two teenage girls aged 17 and 18.
According to the CP, the suspect confessed to committing the crime during interrogation, saying he does the act with accomplices identified as Nafiu Muhammed, Adam Nura (alias Willy), and Mubarak Yusuf, who are currently on the run.
Investigation revealed that the suspects impersonated members of the Peace Corps to lure unsuspecting girls to an office at GDSS Gidan Igwai, where they were intimidated, sexually assaulted, and secretly video-recorded for blackmail.
Musa said investigation have so far identified 28 victims of the rape syndicate.
Recovered exhibits at the rapist residence include a camouflage uniform and an identity card of the Sokoto State Master Peace Brigade bearing the suspect’s name, allegedly used to intimidate victims.
Musa said discreet investigations were ongoing, with sustained efforts to arrest fleeing suspects and ensure that all those involved face the full wrath of the law.
In his advice to the people of the state ahead of the festive season, Musa said, they should observe security advisory, warnings as criminals often exploit festive periods marked by travel and social gatherings.
He appealed to all to be vigilant, secure their homes, verify the identities of anyone claiming to be security personnel, supervise young persons, avoid risky travel, and promptly report suspicious activities.
The Sokoto Police Command reassured the public of their continued commitment to protecting lives and property, even as they appealled to the people of the state to remain law-abiding, and support the Police with timely and credible information at all times.
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