By Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto
Sokoto State Police command Friday paraded one Malam Muhammad Sai Malam also known as Mai Aljanar Kuddi being the leader and Chief Priest of an emerging money ritual cult group in Sokoto State.
The command also paraded another young man who under pretence of being a local vigilantes arrest going girls, have carnal knowledge of them, record same and use the video as weapon of commanding subjection.
Addressing newsmen at the State Command, Sokoto State 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.
CP Musa recalled that on November 29, 2025, three members of the feared “Sai Malam” cult were arrested. Following renewed intelligence led operations by the Anti Kidnapping Unit, the police has 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 the CP will dismantle the dreaded cult group and bring to an end its reign of terror in several communities.
In another operation, CP Musa said command arrested a notorious serial rapist, Anas Sani of Gidan Igwai area, Sokoto, on December 9, 2025, following a report involving the abduction and rape of two teenage girls aged 17 and 18.
According to the CP, the suspect, Ana’s confessed to commission of 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.
CP Musa said investigation have so far identified 28 victims whom the syndicate have had commityed such crime against.
“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.
He said discreet investigations are ongoing, with sustained efforts to arrest fleeing suspects and ensure that all those involved face the full wrath of the law.
In his advise to the people of the State ahead of the festive season, CP Musa said, they should observe security advisory, warning that criminals often exploit festive periods marked by travel and social gatherings.
He appealed to all and sundry 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 State Police Command reassured the public of their continued commitment to protecting lives and property, even as they appealed to people of the state to remain law abiding, support the Police with timely and credible information at all times.
