Kaduna, January 7, 2026 – The Nigeria Police Force has successfully thwarted an attempted attack and rescued 76 children who were allegedly being trafficked for child labour and domestic work in the Kasuwan Magani area of Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State. Three suspects were arrested during the intelligence-led operation, marking a significant victory in the ongoing fight against human trafficking and banditry in the North-West region.
According to a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, on January 7, 2026, the Kaduna State Police Command received credible intelligence on January 5 at approximately 8:00 PM indicating that suspected bandits planned to attack and kidnap motorists transporting children through the area. Acting swiftly, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Kasuwan Magani Division mobilized a team of operatives to the scene.
Upon arrival, the police team engaged the suspects, successfully repelling the attack and rescuing the 76 children—comprising both males and females aged between 7 and 20 years. All the rescued children were reported to be unharmed. The arrested suspects were identified as Jonathan John (male, 25 years), Oliver Magaji (male, 27 years), and Bitrus Sawaba (male, 23 years).
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were conveying the children to various parts of the country for exploitation in child labour and domestic servitude. Hundeyin stated that the suspects are currently in police custody, while the rescued children have been safely accommodated at the Kaduna State Police Command Headquarters pending identification and reunion with their parents or guardians.
"Investigations have commenced to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident and arrest other possible collaborators involved," Hundeyin added. "The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations." The Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, particularly vulnerable groups like children.
This operation highlights the persistent threat of human trafficking in Nigeria, where children are often lured or forcibly taken from rural areas for exploitation in urban centers or farms. Kaduna State, plagued by banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes, has seen numerous incidents of child abduction in recent years. Kasuwan Magani, in particular, has a history of violence, including deadly ethno-religious crises in 2018 that claimed dozens of lives.
Human rights organizations have welcomed the rescue, calling it a timely intervention amid rising cases of child trafficking. The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) reported over 1,000 trafficking cases in 2025 alone, with many involving minors from northern states. Advocacy groups like UNICEF Nigeria have repeatedly urged enhanced border patrols and community awareness to curb the menace.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has been commended for prioritizing intelligence-driven policing, which enabled this proactive response. Similar operations in recent months have led to the rescue of dozens of victims across the country, underscoring the NPF's efforts to dismantle trafficking networks.
Parents and guardians in affected communities have expressed relief, with some already contacting authorities for identification processes. The police have appealed to the public to provide information on missing children matching the descriptions to facilitate swift reunions.
This incident occurs against the backdrop of heightened insecurity in Kaduna, where bandits frequently target highways and villages. Governor Uba Sani has pledged continued collaboration with federal security agencies to address root causes, including poverty and unemployment that make children vulnerable to traffickers.
As investigations proceed, the case is expected to expose broader syndicates involved in child exploitation. Legal experts anticipate charges under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, which carries severe penalties including life imprisonment for child trafficking convictions.
The successful rescue has been hailed on social media, with Nigerians praising the police for their vigilance. Hashtags like #Rescue76Children trended briefly, reflecting public support for anti-trafficking efforts.
This operation serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by children in conflict-prone areas and the critical role of timely intelligence in preventing tragedies. The Nigeria Police Force continues to assure citizens of its readiness to combat crime and protect the most vulnerable.
