- The Sokoto State Police Command has cautioned youths against joining a newly identified terror-linked cult group, Sai Malam, warning that its activities pose a growing threat to public safety in parts of the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Musa, raised the alarm on Friday while briefing journalists at the command’s headquarters in Sokoto, amid rising concerns over the group’s operations in some communities.
Musa explained that the briefing was part of ongoing efforts by the command to keep the public informed about security operations aimed at restoring peace and dismantling criminal networks across the state.
He disclosed that operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit had arrested Mohammed Mukhtar, alleged to be the leader and chief priest of the Sai Malam group, in a targeted operation.
“A search conducted at his residence, which also served as a shrine, led to the recovery of a live python, banners bearing the inscription ‘Sai Malam,’ as well as various fetish materials and charms,” the commissioner said.
Describing the arrest as a major breakthrough, Musa assured residents that the police would sustain efforts to neutralise criminal elements threatening peace and security in the state.
He urged parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the activities of their children, particularly youths, and appealed to members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible information.
The police boss added that the briefing also formed part of precautionary security measures ahead of and after the Christmas season, assuring residents of the command’s readiness to protect lives and property across Sokoto State.