Police investigate alleged return of Sai Malam group

The Kebbi State Police Command has commenced an investigation into reports alleging that the “Sai Malam” group has resurfaced in Argungu Local Government Area.

The Command said it was acting on credible intelligence and was working to establish the authenticity of the claims before taking further action.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, the Command said it had taken note of the reports and had already begun verifying the information.

The police also dismissed claims suggesting that the group had been officially classified as a terrorist organisation, stressing that no such designation currently exists.

According to the statement, “The ‘Sai Malam’ group has not been designated as a terrorist organisation under any existing proscription order.”

The Command recalled that some individuals linked to the group had earlier been arrested and prosecuted in Zuru in February 2026 over alleged criminal activities.

It explained that investigators recovered suspected counterfeit currencies from several countries, including the Nigerian naira, United States dollar, CFA franc and Libyan dinar. Officers also seized items believed to be connected with ritual or occult practices, alongside other materials considered relevant to the investigation.

However, the police noted that no firearms were found in the possession of the suspects.

The statement added that “No firearms were recovered from the suspects during the investigation.”

Reassuring residents of its commitment to public safety, the Command said it would continue to enforce the law and respond firmly to criminal activities across the state.

It also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and support security efforts by volunteering useful information that could assist investigators.

SP Usman urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing credible intelligence that would aid the ongoing investigation.