The Nigeria Police Force has intercepted a suspected human trafficking operation in Kaduna State, foiling a planned attack and rescuing 76 children who were reportedly being transported for child labour.
The operation, which took place in the Kasuwan Magani area of the state, also led to the arrest of three suspects.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the intervention occurred on the evening of January 5, 2026, following credible intelligence received by the Kaduna State Police Command.
Hundeyin disclosed that police operatives were alerted around 8:00 p.m. that suspected bandits were plotting to attack and kidnap motorists transporting children through the area.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Kasuwan Magani Division led a team to the scene.
The police engaged the suspected attackers, successfully repelling them and securing the safety of the victims.
“On arrival, the police team engaged and successfully repelled the suspected attackers, leading to the rescue of seventy-six (76) children, comprising both males and females, aged between seven (7) and twenty (20) years. All the rescued children were unharmed,” the statement read.
During the operation, three suspects identified as Jonathan John (25), Oliver Magaji (27), and Bitrus Sawaba (23) were apprehended.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the incident may be linked to a broader trafficking syndicate rather than a simple kidnapping for ransom.
Police findings revealed that the suspects were transporting the children to various parts of the country to be used for child labour and domestic work.
The suspects are currently in custody, while the rescued children have been taken to the Command Headquarters for safety. The police are awaiting the arrival of parents or guardians for proper identification and reunification.
The Force PRO stated that a comprehensive investigation has commenced to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the incident and to track down any other collaborators.
He assured the public that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation.
Reiterating the Force’s commitment to protecting lives and property, Hundeyin urged citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support proactive policing efforts.
