The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has successfully disrupted a planned attack and foiled an attempted kidnapping operation in Kasuwan Magani, Kaduna State, leading to the rescue of 76 children and the arrest of three suspected traffickers.
The operation, which took place on Monday, January 5, 2026, was carried out after the police received credible intelligence indicating the movement of suspected criminals within the area. According to a statement released on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Kaduna State Police Command was alerted around 8:00 p.m. to an alleged plan by suspected bandits to attack and abduct children being transported through Kasuwan Magani.
Acting swiftly on the information, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Kasuwan Magani Division immediately mobilised a team of officers to the location to intercept the suspects and prevent the attack.
Upon arrival, the police team encountered the suspects and engaged them, successfully repelling the attempted assault. The operation resulted in the safe rescue of 76 minors—both boys and girls—whose ages range between seven and twenty years. Thankfully, none of the children sustained injuries during the incident.
Three suspects were arrested at the scene and later identified as Jonathan John, aged 25; Oliver Magaji, 27; and Bitrus Sawaba, 23. Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects were allegedly transporting the children to different parts of the country, where they were to be engaged in child labour and other forms of domestic servitude.
The rescued children have since been taken to the Kaduna State Police Command Headquarters, where they are being provided care and protection. The police stated that arrangements are underway to ensure the proper identification of the children and the reunification with their parents or legal guardians.
Meanwhile, the suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue. CSP Hundeyin noted that further inquiries are ongoing to uncover the full details of the operation and to identify and apprehend other individuals who may be connected to the crime. He added that the suspects will be arraigned in court once investigations are concluded.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to safeguarding lives and property, Hundeyin urged members of the public to continue supporting law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid proactive and effective policing efforts across the country.
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