The Sokoto State Police Command announced the capture of Mohammed Mukhtar (aka “Sai Mallam”), the alleged chief priest of the “Sai Mallam” cult, and Annas Sani, a suspected serial rapist from Gidan Igwai. During a Friday briefing, Commissioner of Police Ahmed Musa said the arrests follow a November 29, 2025 operation that already netted three cult members and are part of a broader crackdown on fraud, intimidation and cult‑related crimes.
A search of Mukhtar’s home‑shrine turned up fetish items, banners bearing the group’s name and paraphernalia allegedly used to hypnotise victims .
Musa highlighted that most cult members are youths aged 19‑30 who should be in school or training, and he urged parents to keep a close watch on their children.
In the separate case, Annas Sani was arrested on 9 December 2025 after a report of two teenage girls being abducted and raped. He confessed to assaulting at least 28 girls, naming three accomplices still at large—Mohammed, Adam Nura (alias Willy) and Mubarak Yusuf.
The gang allegedly posed as the “Sokoto State Masterpiece Brigade” to lure victims, using a camouflage uniform and fake ID to intimidate them. Many victims have fled their homes, and police are seeking public tips while continuing the manhunt for the remaining suspects.
Mukhtar denied any cult involvement, claiming he is merely a spiritualist.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of police told residents to remain calm but should report suspicious movement to enable them curb criminal in the state.
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