The Sokoto State Police Command has arrested the leader of the notorious ‘Sai Mallam’ cult group and a suspected serial rapist accused of abusing multiple teenage girls.
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State Commissioner of Police Ahmed Musa announced the arrests during a Friday press briefing, describing them as part of intensified efforts to restore peace and dismantle criminal networks causing fear through fraud, intimidation, and occult practices.
Following the November 29, 2025, arrest of three ‘Sai Mallam’ members, police tracked down the group’s leader and chief priest, Mohamed Mokhtar (aka ‘Sai Mallam’). A search of his residence-cum-shrine recovered fetish items, group banners, and tools allegedly used to hypnotize victims.
Musa called the arrest a key breakthrough, noting most members are youths aged 19–30 who should be in school or training. He urged parents to monitor their children closely.
In a separate case, Annas Sani from Gidan Igwai was arrested on December 9, 2025, for conspiracy, abduction, impersonation, and rape. He confessed to assaults on at least 28 girls, aided by three accomplices still at large: Mohammed, Adam Nura (alias Willy), and Mubarak Yusuf.
The gang posed as the fake “Sokoto State Masterpiece Brigade” to lure victims, where they were intimidated and abused. Many traumatized victims have fled their homes. Recovered items included a camouflage uniform and fake ID.
Musa condemned the crimes as “horrible” and advised parents to supervise daughters’ movements and encourage open communication.
Police are hunting the remaining suspects and seeking public tips. Mokhtar denied cult involvement, claiming he is only a spiritualist.
