The Nigeria Police Force has rescued 76 children following the disruption of a suspected kidnapping operation in the Kasuwan Magani area of Kaduna State.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, January 7, Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed that the operation was carried out by officers of the Kaduna State Police Command on January 5, 2026.

Hundeyin explained that at about 8:00 p.m., the Command received credible intelligence indicating that suspected bandits were planning to abduct motorists transporting children through the area.

Acting swiftly on the information, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Kasuwan Magani Division mobilised a team of operatives to the location.

According to the police spokesperson, the officers engaged and successfully repelled the suspects, leading to the rescue of 76 children—both males and females—aged between seven and 20 years.

“All the rescued children were unharmed during the operation,” Hundeyin said, adding that three suspects were arrested. 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 various parts of the country for child labour and other domestic-related activities.

The arrested suspects are currently in police custody, while the rescued children are being sheltered at the Command Headquarters pending the identification and arrival of their parents or guardians.

Hundeyin noted that investigations are ongoing to uncover the full details surrounding the incident and to identify other possible collaborators.

He assured that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations and reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to safeguarding lives and property.

The police spokesperson also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support proactive policing efforts nationwide.