By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
The Sokoto State Police Command has announced the arrest of three suspected members of the notorious “Sai Malam” cult group, marking a major disruption of the gang’s operations across the state. The arrests were carried out late on Friday night, November 28, at about 2300 hours, following precise intelligence tracked by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit.
Commissioner of Police Ahmed Musa authorized the operation, which followed escalating public distress over the group’s growing presence and its violent influence on vulnerable communities.
The lead suspect has been identified as Usman Shu’aibu. He was apprehended alongside two accomplices whose names are being withheld pending further investigation. During interrogation, investigators recovered initial evidence suggesting the gang used closed channels on WhatsApp to recruit, coordinate and initiate young people into the cult.
One such group, referred to by the suspects as “Red Chamber,” was reportedly structured to issue clandestine invitations and facilitate secret initiation rites. The police believe the platform served as an entry point for recruitment, offering inducements that masked the group’s underlying intent.
The Command has issued an urgent advisory to parents, guardians and community leaders to remain alert. Cult networks, especially those operating through private online groups, are increasingly targeting young persons who may not fully understand the risks of encrypted or closed digital circles.
The public has been urged to take suspicious invitations seriously, watch for sudden behavioural changes, and report credible concerns to the Nigerian Police Force. Authorities say public trust is strengthened when communities share timely tips that help to prevent harm before it spreads.
Ahmed Musa spoke directly to residents, acknowledging the role of citizen reports in activating the raid. He said the police will continue to act on community intelligence, sustain pressure on criminal cult cells, and expand investigations until the wider network is dismantled.
The Police Public Relations Office confirmed that the arrests represent one part of an ongoing operation. Efforts have already expanded into a broader investigation aimed at capturing the remaining members of the gang, including any digital coordinators linked to recruitment pipelines.
The press statement was signed by DSP Ahmad Rufai, who confirmed that police units will maintain coordinated action to defend civic peace, protect young people from unlawful influence, and reinforce safety for every community in Sokoto State.
— Newspot Nigeria
