Security sources disclosed that the Kaduna State Police Command acted on reliable intelligence received on January 5, 2026, around 8:00 p.m., which revealed that a group of criminals was preparing to ambush vehicles conveying children through the area.
Acting promptly, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Kasuwan Magani deployed a team of officers to the identified location. On arrival, the operatives engaged the suspects and successfully prevented the planned attack, forcing the criminals to abandon their operation.
As a result of the swift intervention, 76 children—both boys and girls aged between 7 and 20 years—were rescued. Police confirmed that all the children were found in good condition with no injuries recorded.
Three individuals were apprehended during the operation. They were identified as Jonathan John (25), Oliver Magaji (27), and Bitrus Sawaba (23). Initial findings suggest that the suspects were allegedly moving the children to various destinations across the country for child labour and other forms of domestic exploitation.
The suspects are currently being held in police custody, while the rescued children have been transferred to the Kaduna State Police Command Headquarters, where they are receiving care as efforts continue to reunite them with their parents or guardians.
Police authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the syndicate and to identify other accomplices. The suspects are expected to be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
The Nigeria Police Force has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and combating child trafficking, urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to aid security operations nationwide.
