DSS Rescues 25 Kidnapped Children in Plateau
In a remarkable display of tactical precision and intelligence-led operations, the Department of State Services (DSS) has successfully rescued 25 children who were abducted by gunmen in Plateau State. This breakthrough comes as a significant relief to the families and the people of the Sabon Layi community in Wase Local Government Area, who have been in distress since the victims were seized during the festive season.
The rescue, confirmed on Saturday, January 10, 2026, underscores the ongoing efforts of Nigerian security agencies to combat the rising tide of banditry and kidnapping in the North Central region.
The Abduction: A Night of Deception
The harrowing ordeal for these children began on the evening of December 21, 2025. According to Mr. Samuel Jatau, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Plateau, the victims were traveling as a group to attend a Maulud celebration when they were intercepted at approximately 7:00 p.m.
The kidnappers employed a deceptive tactic that has become increasingly common among bandits in rural areas. They reportedly posed as local vigilantes, setting up a mock checkpoint on the road. Thinking they were interacting with security personnel for routine checks, the group stopped to speak with the gunmen. It was during this interaction that the assailants revealed their true identity, forcefully abducting the children and disappearing into the dense forests of Wase.
The DSS Manhunt and Successful Rescue
Following the abduction, the DSS launched an intensive manhunt. The operation was fueled by strategic intelligence gathering and a commitment to ensuring the victims were returned unharmed. While three of the children had managed to escape their captors in the weeks following the incident, the remaining victims were held in captivity until the DSS intervention.
The SSG, who received the rescued victims on behalf of the Plateau State Government in Jos, praised the Department of State Services for their bravery and efficiency. He confirmed that the group consisted of 19 males and 6 females. Despite the traumatic experience of being held for nearly three weeks, the security agency ensured that the children were recovered safely and provided with immediate care.
Medical Certification and Family Reunification
One of the most heartening aspects of this report is the health status of the victims. Before being handed over to their respective families, the 25 children underwent rigorous medical examinations to assess their physical and mental well-being.
”The children have been certified medically fit,” stated the SSG. This certification is a crucial step in the recovery process, ensuring that any hidden injuries or psychological trauma are addressed before they return to their normal lives. The Plateau State Government has emphasized that it will continue to monitor the progress of these survivors as they reintegrate into their communities.
Securing Plateau State: The Road Ahead
While the rescue is a cause for celebration, it also highlights the security vulnerabilities in the Wase Local Government Area. Wase shares boundaries with Taraba and Bauchi states, making it a porous corridor for criminal elements.
The successful operation by the DSS is a clear signal to bandits that the Nigerian security apparatus is intensifying its crackdown. However, stakeholders are calling for even more proactive measures, including:
- Increased Patrols: Strengthening the presence of security forces along known transit routes for religious and social gatherings.
- Community Intelligence: Encouraging local communities to report suspicious “vigilante” activities to the official authorities.
- Technological Integration: Utilizing drones and advanced surveillance to monitor the thick forests that serve as hideouts for kidnappers.
Conclusion
The rescue of the 25 children in Plateau is a testament to what can be achieved through coordination and relentless pursuit by the DSS. As these children return to their homes in Sabon Layi, the story serves as a reminder of the resilience of the Nigerian spirit and the vital importance of national security.
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