The Nigeria Police Force has foiled an attempted attack and planned kidnapping of children in the Kasuwan Magani area of Kaduna State, rescuing 76 minors and arresting three suspects.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the operation followed credible intelligence received by the Kaduna State Police Command on January 5, 2026, at about 8:00 p.m., indicating that suspected bandits were planning to attack motorists conveying children through the area.
Acting swiftly on the information, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Kasuwan Magani Division mobilised a team of officers to the location. On arrival, the operatives engaged the suspects and successfully repelled the attack.
As a result of the operation, 76 children—both male and female, aged between seven and 20 years—were rescued unharmed.
Three suspects were arrested during the operation. They were identified as Jonathan John, 25; Oliver Magaji, 27; and Bitrus Sawaba, 23.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were allegedly transporting the children to different parts of the country for child labour and other domestic work.
The suspects are currently in police custody, while the rescued children have been taken to the Kaduna State Police Command Headquarters for safety, pending the identification and arrival of their parents or guardians.
Police authorities said investigations have been expanded to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the incident and to apprehend other possible collaborators. The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to the protection of lives and property and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support proactive policing efforts across the country.
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