The Nigeria Police Force has disrupted a suspected child trafficking and kidnapping plot in Kasuwan Magani, Kaduna State, rescuing 76 children and arresting three alleged suspects after acting on credible intelligence on January 5, 2026.
According to a statement from the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Kaduna State Police Command received information that a bandit group was planning to ambush motorists transporting children through the area with the aim of abducting them. A rapid response by police operatives under the Divisional Police Officer at Kasuwan Magani successfully repelled the attack, ensuring the children — ranging in age from approximately seven to 20 — were rescued unharmed.
Three male suspects — identified as Jonathan John (25), Oliver Magaji (27) and Bitrus Sawaba (23) — were apprehended during the operation. Early investigation indicates that the suspects were moving the children to other parts of the country for child labour and other domestic work, according to preliminary police findings. The rescued children are being held safely at the Kaduna State Police Command Headquarters pending proper identification and reunification with their families or guardians.
Police have reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property nationwide and said a full investigation is underway to uncover any broader networks connected to the planned kidnapping, with suspects expected to be charged in court once inquiries are complete
