The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Yobe State has rescued 21 minors suspected to be victims of human trafficking at a checkpoint in the state.

The children, aged between 7 and 15, were found in a Toyota Hiace bus (registration number 10B-87GM) at the Geidam control point in Dunari, near the border with Niger Republic.

In a statement on Thursday, the NIS Command revealed that the bus was transporting the minors from Labule and Ibeto towns in Magama Local Government Area, Niger State, to Maine Soroa in Niger Republic.

According to Yobe State Comptroller Mr. S.S. Jega, the children had no knowledge of their destination and lacked valid travel documents or identification, raising suspicions of human trafficking.

"We suspect a case of human trafficking due to the absence of proper travel documents and supporting papers," Jega stated.

The NIS confirmed that the minors would be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and necessary action. Additionally, their guardian, Abubakar Saidu, a 28-year-old Islamic school teacher from Anaba, Magama Local Government Area, Niger State, was apprehended in connection with the case.

Authorities are continuing investigations to determine the full extent of the trafficking network and ensure justice for the victims.