In a significant move against human trafficking, the Nasarawa State Police Command successfully rescued 17 young people suspected to be victims of exploitation.
The operation highlights the growing vigilance of security forces in protecting vulnerable communities across the state.
Dramatic Interception at Sharp Corner
The breakthrough occurred on January 17, 2026, around 5:50 pm, when officers from the Mararaba ‘A’ Division were conducting a routine stop-and-search operation at Sharp Corner in Karu Local Government Area.
During the patrol, they stopped a white Volkswagen Sharon with registration number SHD 253 YU.
The driver, identified as 36-year-old Nanle John, had 17 passengers on board — 11 boys and six girls, all aged between 10 and 19 years.
The situation immediately raised red flags for the officers.
Journey Under Suspicion
Upon questioning, the young passengers revealed they were travelling from Shendam in Plateau State to Kayama in Kwara State.
They claimed they were going to meet a man named Umaru, who had promised them farming jobs in Kayama.
Police suspected that these claims were part of a human trafficking scheme.
Attempts to contact the parents or guardians of the victims, as well as Umaru himself, were unsuccessful, as the phone numbers provided could not be reached.
Victims Placed in Protective Custody
Following the discovery, Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, ordered that the youths be placed under protective custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department in Lafia.
He also mandated a thorough investigation to trace the individuals behind the trafficking network and bring them to justice.
Identities of the Rescued Victims
The rescued individuals, whose ages range from 10 to 19 years, include: Nanpar Zwaltur (19), Monday Zinglak (14), Ramnap Selchum (18), Nankat Ayuba (18), Burnan Yilkur (19), Timnan Ponfa (19), Nantip Nanbut (19), Kumlyan Nanbut (17), Zwalkur Zingdap (15), Nanfar Zwalkur (11), Nanpar Nanbut (14), Nanchu Bwoi (13), Godiya Lagang (10), Yulbyen Zingdap (10), Nanna Chirvyok (12), Sholyen Rapkat (10), and Ladi Dinfa (12).
Commitment to Eradicating Human Trafficking
CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed emphasized the command’s dedication to protecting vulnerable individuals and tackling human trafficking across Nasarawa State.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn