Fear spread across parts of Sokoto after police uncovered a strange fake money syndicate allegedly linked to ritual practices and fraud.
Meanwhile, two kidnapped villagers were rescued hours later after security operatives engaged armed bandits in a fierce late-night exchange of gunfire.
The discoveries have stirred conversations across the state. Many residents were particularly alarmed by reports that fake foreign currencies, charms, and a “magic box” were allegedly used to deceive unsuspecting victims.
According to the Sokoto State Police Command, the first operation happened on May 19, 2026, around 2 pm. Officers from the Strike Force Unit reportedly acted on intelligence supplied by a resident in the Mana area of Sokoto metropolis.
During the raid, four suspects believed to be members of the notorious “Sai Mallam” cult group were arrested. However, another suspect identified as Yusufa Auditor reportedly escaped before officers arrived at the location.
Police said several suspicious items were recovered from the residence. The items included fake CFA notes, counterfeit US dollars, fake Nigerian currency, rings, charms, SIM cards, and a machine allegedly used to print fake money.
In addition, officers recovered ₦97,700 believed to be proceeds from fraudulent activities. Four fake gold stones were also found inside the building during the search.
The arrested suspects were identified as Saifullahi Aminu, Ahmad Sarkin Aski, Muhammadu Lawali, also known as Gunda, and Usama Muhammad, popularly called Na’Ukada.
During interrogation, police said the suspects admitted working with another fleeing member of the group. The suspects allegedly collected money from victims before performing fake spiritual tricks to convince them currency was being multiplied.
The command explained that the syndicate targeted innocent residents through deception and fear. Furthermore, authorities believe more victims may still come forward as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, another security operation unfolded barely 24 hours later in Jareedi Village, located in Binji Local Government Area.
According to police reports, armed bandits stormed the community around 11:30 pm on May 20. Residents were thrown into panic after gunshots echoed across the village.
Two men, Umar Faruku and Husa Abdullahi, were reportedly abducted during the attack. However, security operatives quickly responded after receiving a distress call from residents.
Police tactical teams later joined forces with the Army Forward Operating Base. Consequently, a gun battle followed deep inside nearby bushes as officers pursued the attackers.
The pressure from the security team reportedly forced the kidnappers to abandon their victims and flee into the forest.
One of the rescued victims suffered a minor leg injury during the incident. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, treated, and later discharged.
Reacting to the operations, the Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, praised the officers involved in the missions. He also commended the resident whose information led to the raid.
The police statement read, “We now call on all residents of the Caliphate to continue providing timely, actionable information to security agencies.”
The statement added, “Your eyes and ears are critical to dismantling all forms of crime and criminality in our beloved state.”
Furthermore, the command assured residents that informants would remain protected and anonymous.
