Police operatives have disrupted a coordinated attempt to abduct dozens of children in Kaduna State, preventing what authorities described as a large-scale criminal operation.
Acting on intelligence reports, police units moved swiftly to the Kasuwan Magani axis after learning that suspected bandits were targeting vehicles transporting children through the area.
According to police sources, the intervention took place on Monday evening when officers encountered the suspects and forced them to retreat after a brief confrontation.
As a result of the operation, 76 children, both boys and girls, were freed without injury.
Their ages range from seven to 20 years, highlighting the scale and vulnerability involved.
Confirming the development, police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said the timely response was driven by actionable intelligence and rapid deployment on the ground.
“Our officers acted decisively, and their presence alone disrupted what could have been a tragic incident involving minors,” Hundeyin said.
Meanwhile, three male suspects were arrested during the operation.
Investigators identified them as Jonathan John, 25; Oliver Magaji, 27; and Bitrus Sawaba, 23.
Preliminary findings indicate the children were being transported for forced labour and domestic exploitation across different parts of the country.
Following the rescue, authorities moved the children to a secure location at the state police headquarters, where they are receiving care while officials work to identify their families.
Furthermore, police confirmed that the suspects remain in custody as investigations expand to uncover additional accomplices and the broader trafficking network.
Reaffirming the Force’s position, Hundeyin said the police remain committed to protecting vulnerable citizens and called on residents to continue sharing credible information to support crime prevention efforts.