**[Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)](https://nscdc.gov.ng)** in Zamfara State detained a 25‑year‑old man accused of human trafficking and rescued two 13‑year‑old girls in Gusau, the state capital, earlier this week. The operation was carried out in partnership with other security agencies and the suspects were handed over for further action.
**What were the key details?**
- The suspect, identified as Bala Abubakar, hails from Zurmi Local Government Area and was apprehended in the Lalan area of Gusau.
- The two rescued girls, Amira Baje Ibrahim and Haulatu Shaibu, are also from Zurmi LGA.
- Preliminary investigations suggest the girls were taken from Shinkafi LGA and were being moved to meet two individuals known as Hadiza and Bara’atu, popularly called Yar Baba, in Suleja, Niger State.
- State NSCDC Commandant Sani Mustapha stated, "The operation was conducted in line with the corps’ operational procedures and in collaboration with other security agencies."
**What actions followed the arrest?**
The commandant directed that the case be transferred to the **[National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP)](https://naptip.gov.ng)** for further investigation and appropriate legal action. The NSCDC reiterated its commitment to fighting criminal activities, emphasizing that thorough investigations will continue and that perpetrators will be prosecuted when sufficient evidence is gathered.
**What is the broader significance?**
The incident underscores the ongoing challenge of human trafficking in northern Nigeria and highlights the collaborative efforts of security agencies to protect vulnerable children. Authorities have urged the public to support law‑enforcement initiatives and report any suspicious activities related to trafficking.