Sokoto man Anas Sani in police net over rape of 28 girls

By Muhammad Nasir

Police operatives in Sokoto have arrested one Anas Sani, who allegedly conspired with three others currently at large, over suspected offences including conspiracy, abduction, intimidation, impersonation, and the rape of no fewer than 28 girls in the state.

The Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, Mr Ahmad Musa revealed this while addressing journalists at the Sokoto state Police Command Headquarters on Friday.

According to him, the suspects used the cover of the Peace Corps organisation to lure unsuspecting young girls to their office located at GDSS Gidan Igwai, Sokoto, where they intimidated and sexually assaulted them.

“They also video-recorded the acts and used the footage to continuously blackmail the victims into further sexual abuse,” he added.

Musa further stated that during interrogation, the suspect confessed to committing the crimes in collaboration with the three fleeing suspects, adding that 28 victims have so far been identified.

The commissioner said the case is currently under discreet investigation, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the remaining suspects and ensure that all those involved face the full wrath of the law.

Musa also cautioned youths against joining a newly identified terrorist cult group known as “Sai Malam”, while urging parents and guardians to closely monitor the activities of their children.

He noted that the activities of the cult group have recently generated fear and concern among residents in several communities across the state.

But the Sokoto Police Commissioner disclosed that operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the command successfully arrested one Muhammad Muktar, identified as the leader and chief priest of the Sai Malam cult group.

“A search conducted at his residence, which also served as his shrine, led to the recovery of one large live python, banners bearing the inscription ‘SAI MALAM,’ as well as various fetish materials and charms,” Musa said.

The police Commissioner described the arrest as a major breakthrough in the effort to completely dismantle the group, assuring residents of the command’s unwavering commitment to neutralising all criminal networks threatening peace in the state.