Local security forces in eastern Sudan have arrested a man who claimed to be a prophet and the “awaited Mahdi,” following a dramatic pursuit that has stirred debate over religious extremism and community security.
According to local sources, fighters from the National Movement for Justice and Development in eastern Sudan detained the man and several companions after a security chase in Kassala state. They were handed over to police in the Telkok area, who later transferred them to the relevant security services to complete legal procedures.
Sources said the operation was carried out under strict security measures due to the sensitivity of the man’s claims, which triggered strong reactions and concern in local communities.
Police officials said they had ordered the accused to publicly recant his statements in the same manner he appeared in a video claiming prophethood, before proceeding with legal action. They stressed that this approach was part of standard legal and security protocols designed to prevent any harmful impact on social stability.
The case has sparked heated discussion, with many residents viewing such claims as a threat to public order and a possible trigger for ideological and religious unrest. Tensions increased further after the man reportedly admitted he was not the “awaited Mahdi,” deepening fears that similar assertions could be used to spread discord.
In response, the Hamshkoreb religious school issued a statement completely distancing itself from the man and his actions. The school said his claims insult its long-standing religious and missionary heritage, stressing that his behavior has nothing to do with its teachings or mission. It described his statements as an affront to the spiritual and religious legacy associated with the institution’s name over many decades.
