Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
In a swift and intelligence-led operation, operatives of the Kaduna State Police Command have successfully foiled an attempted kidnapping and rescued 76 boys and girls in the Kasuwan Magani area of Kaduna State. The Nigeria Police Force said the dramatic intervention took place on the evening of January 5, 2026, after credible intelligence warning of an impending attack on motorists transporting children through the area.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Kaduna State Police Command received information around 8:00 p.m. indicating that suspected bandits were planning to ambush vehicles carrying children with the intent to abduct them. Acting promptly on the intelligence, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Kasuwan Magani Division mobilised a team of police personnel to the targeted location.
On arrival at the scene, police operatives engaged the suspected attackers and successfully repelled the planned assault, leading to the safe rescue of 76 children — both boys and girls — aged between seven and 20 years. All the children were found unharmed and immediately taken into protective custody.
During the operation, three suspects were apprehended. They were identified as Jonathan John (25), Oliver Magaji (27) and Bitrus Sawaba (23). Preliminary police investigations suggest that the suspects were allegedly transporting the children to other parts of the country, where they intended to exploit them for child labour and various forms of domestic work.
The rescued minors are currently being cared for at the Kaduna State Police Command Headquarters while officers work to properly identify and reunite them with their parents or guardians. Meanwhile, the suspects remain in custody as investigations continue. Police have stated that the trio will be charged to court once the full inquiry is completed.
Authorities said the successful operation underscores the importance of intelligence-driven policing in safeguarding lives and thwarting criminal designs before they can be carried out. CSP Hundeyin reiterated the police’s commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens and urged members of the public to continue providing credible tips to support proactive security efforts nationwide.
Security analysts say the incident highlights ongoing threats posed by criminal networks in parts of northern Nigeria and the critical role that timely information and coordinated enforcement play in preventing kidnappings and child trafficking. Observers also noted that the safe recovery of so many young people is likely to provide relief to families and communities on edge amid a broader national concern over abductions.
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