The Nasarawa State Police Command announced the rescue of 17 suspected human trafficking victims, including boys and girls aged between 10 and 19 years, after intercepting a vehicle in Karu Local Government Area on Saturday, January 17, 2026. The move reflects sustained law enforcement action against human trafficking within the state.
According to the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, police officers attached to Mararaba ‘A’ Division, while on stop-and-search duty at Sharp Corner, intercepted a white Volkswagen Sharon vehicle with registration number SHD 253 YU at about 5:50 p.m. The vehicle, driven by 36-year-old Nanle John, carried 11 boys and six girls suspected to be trafficking victims.
Human trafficking remains a significant security and social challenge in parts of Nigeria, as criminal networks target vulnerable youths with false job offers or deceptive travel arrangements. Nasarawa State, due to its location adjacent to the Federal Capital Territory, has been a route for alleged trafficking movements, prompting intensified patrols and intelligence-led policing.
SP Nansel explained that initial questioning revealed the group was travelling from Shendam in Plateau State to Kayama in Kwara State to meet an individual identified only as Umaru, who allegedly promised them farming jobs in the destination community. Efforts to contact the victims’ parents or guardians and the alleged recruiter were unsuccessful, as phone numbers provided were unreachable.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, directed that the rescued youths be taken into protective custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Lafia for further care and investigation. The command also ordered a comprehensive investigation to identify and apprehend all persons connected with the suspected trafficking network.
SP Nansel listed the names of the rescued victims, including Nanpar Zwaltur (19), Monday Zinglak (14), Godiya Lagang (10), and Yulbyen Zingdap (10), among others. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and eradicating human trafficking.
The police spokesman urged members of the public to report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station to aid prompt action against human trafficking and related crimes.
The rescue highlights the importance of proactive policing and community cooperation in addressing human trafficking. It also underscores the need for strengthened cross-state collaboration among security agencies to disrupt trafficking routes and protect youths from exploitation.
The Nasarawa State Police Command has commenced a full investigation into the incident and is working to identify all individuals involved. Authorities reiterated their call for public vigilance and cooperation to support ongoing anti-trafficking efforts.
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