The Niger State police command has apprehended a lorry carrying 245 children believed to be trafficked from states bordering Niger.The truck with Kano registration number, XB241GE was intercepted by the police at about 3:00am yesterday in Minna. The children were under the guidance of a Quranic teacher, Malam Awaisu Abubakar.

According to Abubakar, the children were on their way to receive Quranic education in Niger State. But many wondered about the real intention behind movement of such a large number of children.

According to the Director of Press and Media, Alhaji Bala Abdulkadir, the Niger State government had taken custody of the children. He added that the children would be sent back to their various states of origin to be reunited with their families.

"The children have the opportunity to have good Quranic education in their states of origin. Their reason for the trip to Minna is therefore, doubtful," he said.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Poverty Alleviation and Value Orientation, Alhaji Hamidu Kuta said the state government had concluded arrangements to ensure that the police command in Niger State provided adequate security for the children's safe return home.