Police in Sokoto State have arrested an alleged leader of the notorious cult group known as the ‘Sai Mallam’ group and a suspected serial rapist accused of abusing dozens of young girls. The CP said the Sai Mallam group has, in recent months, generated widespread fear in several parts of Sokoto through alleged fraud, intimidation, and fetish practices. In November 2025, the police announced the arrest of three suspects in connection with the Sai Mallam gang in the state. Acting on credible intelligence, police operatives arrested the group’s alleged leader and chief priest, Mohammed Mukhtar, popularly known as Sai Mallam. The Police assured residents that efforts were ongoing to arrest the remaining suspects and urged members of the public to provide useful information.

Source: The Guardian December 19, 2025 21:38 UTC