The Sokoto State Police Command has achieved a significant victory in its fight against organized crime with the arrest of a notorious cult leader. Mohamed Mokhtar, widely known as 'Sai Mallam', who served as both the leader and chief priest of the feared 'Sai Mallam' cult group, is now in police custody.
Intensive Manhunt Leads to Major Arrest
Disclosing the development on Friday, December 19, 2025, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Musa, stated that the arrest followed sustained intelligence and operational efforts. This action builds on a previous breakthrough on November 29, 2025, where three gang members were captured.
"Following that development, our anti-kidnapping unit intensified the manhunt for the remaining members, particularly the leadership," CP Musa explained during a press briefing. "Acting on credible intelligence, our operatives successfully arrested the group’s leader and chief priest, Mohamed Mokhtar."
Shrine Uncovered with Fetish Materials
A subsequent search of Mokhtar's residence, which doubled as a shrine for the group, yielded alarming discoveries. The police recovered various fetish materials, banners inscribed with the cult's name, and other items allegedly employed to hypnotize and intimidate victims.
"This arrest marks a substantial breakthrough in our mission to completely dismantle this dangerous network," the Commissioner asserted. He reassured Sokoto residents that investigations are actively continuing to root out all remnants of the group.
Police Warn of Dangerous Youth Trend
CP Musa expressed deep concern over the demographic profile of the cult's membership, noting that most are youths between the ages of 19 and 30. He described this trend as particularly dangerous for the state's future.
"These years represent the most productive phase of their lives. Rather than pursuing education or learning valuable trades, they are being seduced by deception, fraud, and fetish practices in a misguided quest for quick wealth," he lamented.
The Police Commissioner issued a direct appeal to families, urging greater vigilance. "Parents must pay closer attention to their children, their associations, and their daily activities," he advised. The command attributed recent waves of fear and unrest in several Sokoto communities to the group's alleged activities in fraud, intimidation, and occult practices.
This operation underscores the police's renewed commitment to restoring peace and security by systematically dismantling criminal organizations that terrorize innocent citizens.
