Sokoto: Police arrest three notorious “Sai Malam” cult members

The Sokoto State Police Command has achieved a major breakthrough with the arrest of three notorious members of the criminal cult group “Sai Malam,” responsible for terrorizing several communities across the state.

The arrests were carried out by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Ahmed Musa, following a coordinated night operation on Friday, November 28, at about 11 p.m.

The prime suspect, Usman Shu’aibu, along with two accomplices, has reportedly made detailed confessions exposing the cult’s inner structure and recruitment methods.

Investigations revealed that the suspects were recruited through a private WhatsApp group known as the “Red Chamber,” which lured unsuspecting youths into criminality and immoral behavior under the guise of spiritual empowerment.

According to the Police, the cult engages in witchcraft, ritual practices, demonic power-seeking, acts of homosexuality, and organized thuggery aimed at disrupting public peace.

The Command described the revelations as deeply disturbing and warned that online platforms are increasingly being used to radicalize and recruit vulnerable youths.

In response, the Police urged parents and guardians to monitor their children’s phone activity, engage them in open discussions about secret social media groups, and promptly report suspicious behavior to security agencies.

Commissioner Musa stated that the operation dismantled a major cell of the cult, underscoring the Command’s commitment to intelligence-driven operations that safeguard lives and property in Sokoto State.

Efforts are ongoing to apprehend remaining members, with the Police calling on residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to support security efforts.