Kaduna Police rescue 17 children, arrest three suspected traffickers

Operatives of the Kaduna State Police Command have arrested three suspected child traffickers and rescued 17 minors in Zaria, following what authorities described as credible intelligence on suspicious movements under the Danmagaji Flyover.

The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday. He said the suspects were intercepted on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

Hassan said detectives from the Danmagaji Division acted swiftly after receiving intelligence, rescuing 17 children allegedly being prepared for trafficking to Abuja and other destinations across Nigeria and outside the country.

Those arrested include:

• Musa Shuaibu, 21, from Funtua, Katsina State

• Sani Mamman, 23, from Ingawa, Katsina State

• Mubarak Ismail, 20, from Unguwa Uku, Kano State

“Upon interrogation, the suspects confessed to having brought the children from different locations and were in the process of transporting them to Abuja and beyond before their arrest,” Hassan said.

The police confirmed that all the rescued children are minors and currently in good health. They have been placed under police protection while efforts are ongoing to locate and reunite them with their families.

Hassan added that social welfare authorities are being engaged to ensure proper care for the children pending the conclusion of investigations.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, praised the operatives for their swift and coordinated response, reiterating the Command’s zero tolerance for child trafficking and exploitation.

He cautioned parents and guardians to be wary of individuals making deceptive promises of better opportunities for children in urban centres.

“The suspects will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted upon completion of investigations,” the CP assured.

The police further urged Kaduna residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or movements within their communities to the nearest police station for prompt action.

The latest arrest adds to a series of ongoing efforts by security agencies to clamp down on child trafficking networks operating across northern Nigeria.