The Kaduna State Police Command has rescued 76 children and arrested three suspected traffickers following the foiling of a planned kidnapping and child abduction attempt in Kasuwan Magani area of the state. The successful operation has been praised as a major step in the fight against child trafficking and insecurity in the region.
According to security sources, the operation took place on Sunday, January 5, 2026, after the police received credible intelligence around 8:00 p.m. The information revealed that a group of criminals was planning to ambush vehicles carrying children through Kasuwan Magani, a town located in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Acting on the intelligence, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Kasuwan Magani immediately mobilised a team of officers to the area identified as the planned point of attack. The police moved quickly to prevent the criminals from carrying out their plan.
On arrival at the location, police operatives engaged the suspects, disrupting their operation. Faced with the presence of security personnel, the suspects were forced to abandon their plan. This timely action led to the rescue of all the children involved.
Police sources confirmed that 76 children were rescued during the operation. The children include both boys and girls, aged between seven and 20 years. Thankfully, all of them were found in good condition, with no injuries recorded.
During the operation, three suspects were arrested. They were identified as Jonathan John, aged 25; Oliver Magaji, aged 27; and Bitrus Sawaba, aged 23. The suspects are believed to be part of a wider child trafficking network operating across different parts of the country.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects were allegedly transporting the children to various destinations in Nigeria. Police believe the children were to be used for child labour and other forms of domestic exploitation.
The suspects are currently in police custody, where they are being questioned. The police say further investigations are ongoing to uncover the full scope of the operation and to identify other members of the trafficking syndicate.
Following their rescue, the 76 children were taken to the Kaduna State Police Command Headquarters. There, arrangements were made to ensure their safety and well-being. Police authorities said the children are being properly cared for while efforts are made to trace their parents or guardians.
Officials noted that many victims of child trafficking often come from poor backgrounds, where families may be deceived with promises of education, jobs, or a better life for their children. In some cases, children are moved across states without the knowledge or consent of their parents.
The police said they are working closely with relevant government agencies and social welfare organisations to reunite the children with their families as soon as possible.
Child trafficking remains a serious problem in Nigeria, especially in areas affected by poverty, unemployment, and insecurity. Children are often trafficked for domestic work, street hawking, farm labour, and, in some cases, criminal activities.
Northern states, including Kaduna, have in the past recorded cases of children being moved from rural areas to cities or other regions under false promises. Security agencies have continued to warn parents and guardians to be cautious and to verify any offers involving their children.
Over the years, the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, has increased efforts to combat human trafficking. These efforts include intelligence-led operations, public awareness campaigns, and stronger cooperation with local communities.
Kaduna State has faced several security challenges in recent years, including banditry, kidnappings, and communal violence. Areas such as Kajuru, Birnin Gwari, and parts of Southern Kaduna have been hotspots for criminal activities.
In response, security agencies have stepped up patrols, intelligence gathering, and joint operations to curb crime. The successful rescue of the 76 children is seen as a positive outcome of these efforts.
Residents of Kasuwan Magani expressed relief over the police action, saying the operation prevented what could have been a tragic incident. Some community members praised the police for acting quickly on intelligence and saving the children from harm.
Police authorities said investigations are still ongoing to determine how the children were recruited, where they were coming from, and their intended destinations. The police are also working to find out whether other suspects are still at large.
Once investigations are concluded, the arrested suspects are expected to be charged to court. The police assured the public that the case will be thoroughly handled and that those found guilty will face the full weight of the law.
The Nigeria Police Force has restated its commitment to protecting lives and property, especially vulnerable groups such as children. The police said the rescue operation shows the importance of intelligence sharing and community support in fighting crime.
They also warned criminal groups involved in child trafficking that security agencies are determined to dismantle such networks and bring offenders to justice.
The rescue has attracted positive reactions from the public, with many Nigerians praising the police for their professionalism. Human rights groups and child welfare advocates have also welcomed the development, calling for stronger punishment for those involved in child trafficking.
While challenges remain, the rescue of the 76 children in Kasuwan Magani is seen as a major success in the fight against child trafficking in Kaduna State and Nigeria as a whole.