The Sokoto State Police Command has recorded two major breakthroughs in its fight against violent crime with the arrest of a feared cult leader and a suspected serial rapist terrorising residents.
‘Sai Mallam’ Cult Leader and Chief Priest Apprehended
In a briefing with journalists on Friday, Commissioner of Police Ahmed Musa announced the arrest of Mohammed Mukhtar, the alleged leader and chief priest of the notorious ‘Sai Mallam’ cult group. The arrest followed credible intelligence received by police operatives.
CP Musa stated that the group has generated widespread fear across Sokoto in recent months through alleged fraud, intimidation, and fetish practices. A search of Mukhtar's residence, which doubled as a shrine, yielded fetish materials, banners with the group's name, and other items suspected to be used in hypnotising victims.
"His arrest marks a significant breakthrough in our efforts to dismantle this dangerous group completely," the CP declared. He expressed deep concern that most members of the cult are youths aged between 19 and 30, a trend he described as disturbing. This follows the arrest of three other suspects linked to the gang in November 2025.
Serial Rapist Posed as Official to Lure, Abuse Dozens
In a separate operation, the command confirmed the arrest of a suspected serial rapist, Annas Sani, from the Gidan Igwai area of Sokoto. He was arrested on December 9, 2025, following a report about the abduction and sexual assault of two teenage girls, aged 17 and 18.
During interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crimes and revealed he operated with three accomplices currently at large. The group allegedly impersonated an organisation called the Sokoto State Masterpiece Brigade, using it to lure unsuspecting girls to an office near Gidan Igwai.
Police investigations have so far identified at least 28 victims. The trauma was so severe that some of the affected girls fled their homes out of fear. Recovered items from the suspect include:
- A camouflage-style uniform used to intimidate victims.
- An identification card bearing the suspect's name.
Ongoing Manhunt and Call for Public Vigilance
CP Ahmed Musa emphasised that these arrests are part of sustained operations to restore peace and dismantle organised criminal networks across Sokoto State. Investigations are ongoing to track down other members of the Sai Mallam cult and the three accomplices of the serial rapist.
The Police Commissioner assured residents of the command's commitment to their safety and urged the public to continue providing useful information that could lead to more arrests. The command is determined to bring all fleeing suspects to justice and end the reign of terror inflicted by these groups.
