The Kebbi State Police Command has dismissed claims that the group known as “Sai Malam” is a new terrorist organisation operating in the state.
The command said investigations conducted so far have found no evidence linking the group to terrorism, contrary to reports circulating on social media.
The clarification was issued on Friday amid growing public concern over the alleged activities of the group in parts of Argungu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Police spokesperson Bashir Usman said in a statement that the command remains committed to establishing the facts and ensuring that anyone involved in criminal activities is brought to justice.
“We want to make it clear that investigations carried out so far have not established any terrorism-related offences involving the group,” Usman said.
“Our efforts are aimed at verifying the claims and identifying any individuals involved in criminal activities.”
Usman explained that members of the Sai Malam group arrested in connection with a February 2026 case were investigated and prosecuted for alleged criminal offences rather than terrorism-related crimes.
According to him, the suspects were linked to activities involving suspected counterfeit currencies and other materials relevant to the investigation.
Items reportedly recovered included suspected counterfeit Nigerian naira, United States dollars, CFA francs and Libyan dinars, as well as suspected ritual objects and related materials.
The command added that no firearms were recovered from the suspects, noting that the absence of weapons further distinguished the case from terrorism-related investigations.
The Guild reports that the clarification followed widespread speculation after reports alleged that the Sai Malam group had resurfaced as a terrorist organisation. Those reports also referenced the arrest of suspected members earlier this year, fueling concerns about possible extremist links.
However, the police maintained that the earlier arrests were connected to alleged criminal activities, not terrorism, adding that fresh intelligence-led investigations have been launched to verify the latest claims and determine whether any offences have been committed.
“We urge residents to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies with credible information,” Usman said.
“Public cooperation is vital to ongoing investigations and efforts to maintain safety across the state.”
The command reaffirmed its commitment to combating crime and maintaining law and order, assuring residents that anyone found violating the law would be prosecuted accordingly.