The Sokoto State Police Command says it has uncovered a suspected cult group operating across parts of the state and recruiting young people through a WhatsApp channel.
In a statement on Saturday, the command’s spokesperson, Ahmed Rufai, said three members of the group — including the alleged coordinator, Usman Shu’aibu — were arrested during a sting operation conducted by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit on Friday night.
Mr Rufai said the group, identified as Sai Malam, had been expanding its activities discreetly, using a WhatsApp group named “Red Chamber” to lure and initiate unsuspecting youths.
According to the police, the suspects confessed to being initiated through the online platform, which investigators believe was “deliberately created” to attract impressionable young people with promises of secret powers and group loyalty.
The Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Musa, described the breakthrough as a direct response to growing public concern over youth involvement in harmful networks.
“We want the people of Sokoto to know that we hear them,” the commissioner said. “This arrest is a clear signal that we are dismantling criminal structures wherever they operate — on the streets or online. Our priority remains the safety of every resident.”
Mr Rufai warned that criminal groups are increasingly exploiting digital platforms to influence and mislead young people, urging parents and guardians to pay close attention to their children’s online activities.
“The discovery of the ‘Red Chamber’ shows how social media can be misused to manipulate innocent youths. We call on the public to report any suspicious activity immediately,” he said.
The police added that a manhunt has commenced for other members of the network who fled during the operation, assuring residents that more arrests are expected.
