The commissioner of police in Sokoto State, Ahmad Musa, has cautioned youths against joining a newly identified terrorist cult group known as “Sai Malam”, while urging parents and guardians to closely monitor the activities of their children.

Mr Musa gave the warning on Friday while addressing journalists at the Sokoto state police command headquarters, stating that the activities of the cult group have recently generated fear and concern among residents in several communities across the state.

According to him, the press briefing was aimed at providing updates on the command’s ongoing operations targeted at restoring peace, ensuring public safety, and dismantling criminal networks operating within the state.

He disclosed that operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the command successfully arrested one Muhammad Muktar, identified as the leader and chief priest of the Sai Malam cult group.

“A search conducted at his residence, which also served as his shrine, led to the recovery of one large live python, banners bearing the inscription ‘SAI MALAM,’ as well as various fetish materials and charms,” Mr Musa said.

The police commissioner described the arrest as a major breakthrough in the effort to completely dismantle the group, assuring residents of the command’s unwavering commitment to neutralising all criminal networks threatening peace in the state.

In a related development, Mr Musa revealed that the command had arrested one Anas Sani, who allegedly conspired with three others currently at large, over suspected offences including conspiracy, abduction, intimidation, impersonation, and the rape of no fewer than 28 girls in the state.

He explained that the suspects allegedly used the cover of the Peace Corps organisation to lure unsuspecting young girls to their office located at GDSS Gidan Igwai, Sokoto, where they intimidated and sexually assaulted them.

“They also video-recorded the acts and used the footage to continuously blackmail the victims into further sexual abuse,” he added.

Mr Musa further stated that during interrogation, the suspect confessed to committing the crimes in collaboration with the three fleeing suspects, adding that 28 victims have so far been identified.

The commissioner said the case is currently under discreet investigation, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the remaining suspects and ensure that all those involved face the full wrath of the law.

Meanwhile, Mr Musa reassured residents of the command’s tireless efforts to protect lives and property, stressing that criminal elements will have no hiding place in the state.

He said the briefing also formed part of the police precautionary measures ahead of and after the yuletide period, urging members of the public to remain law-abiding and continue to provide useful information to security agencies while celebrating responsibly. 

(NAN)