The Kebbi State Government has expressed concern over the activities of the Sai Malam sect, a group linked to terrorism, following reports of its presence in some communities within Argungu Local Government Area.
This concern was made public by the State Security Adviser, retired Colonel Danladi Ribah, during a town hall meeting held in Birnin Kebbi.
The gathering brought together the Deputy Inspector-General of Police overseeing the North-West zone, DIG Suleiman Muhammad Abdul, alongside other key security stakeholders.
According to Ribah, security operatives had previously uncovered and curtailed the group’s operations in Sokoto State. However, he noted that authorities are now worried about the sect’s growing presence within Kebbi State.
Reports indicate that members of the Sai Malam group have been sighted in Argungu. Ribah explained that the state government is already working closely with relevant security and intelligence agencies to ensure the situation does not escalate.
“Without an iota of doubt, Sai Malam adherents are present in large numbers in Argungu. They were earlier detected in Zuru, but in smaller numbers,” Ribah said.
The security adviser further stated that Governor Nasir Idris has remained actively involved in efforts to address security challenges across the state.
He noted that the governor regularly convenes monthly security meetings with heads of security agencies and continues to provide the necessary support for operations targeting criminal elements, Vanguard reported.
Police launch response unit in Kebbi
Ribah also highlighted additional security concerns confronting the state, including the activities of bandits as well as the Lakurawa and Mamudawa groups. He explained that these groups often gain access to Kebbi through neighbouring states.
“The Lakurawa infiltrate Kebbi through hit-and-run attacks from Sokoto State and the Republic of Niger,” he said.
In a related development, DIG Suleiman announced the establishment of a Violent Crimes Response Unit (VCRU) within the Kebbi State Police Command as part of efforts to bolster security operations across the state.
He revealed that the newly created unit has been equipped with six operational vehicles and five motorcycles to enhance rapid deployment, intelligence-driven operations, and crime prevention efforts.
The state government also reassured residents that ongoing measures are being implemented to safeguard lives and property throughout Kebbi State, Daily Trust reported.
