The Yobe State Police Command has successfully dismantled a criminal syndicate involved in defrauding ATM users across the state.
On Friday, officers from the State Intelligence Department apprehended three suspects: Sani Kasim (35), Nura Umaru (24), and Umar Suleman (22).
The suspects confessed to their crimes, explaining that they deceived ATM users by pretending to assist them, secretly swapping their ATM cards, and later withdrawing funds from their accounts.
In a statement released on Saturday, the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, confirmed the arrests and detailed the recovery of 47 ATM cards, four mobile phones, and a Mercedes-Benz vehicle from the suspects.
The statement also highlighted the scope of the operation, noting that six victims, including a visually impaired individual who lost ₦181,550, had positively identified the suspects.
Yobe State Commissioner of Police, Garba Ahmed, has directed detectives to intensify efforts to track down other members of the syndicate still at large.
Reassuring the public, Ahmed stated, “Yobe State will not be a safe haven for criminal activities.” He also urged residents to report any suspicious activities and remain vigilant.
To help prevent future incidents, the police shared safety tips for ATM users:
- Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings when using ATMs, especially if anyone nearby seems suspicious.
- Choose Safe Locations: Use ATMs in secure, well-lit areas, such as inside bank premises or reputable commercial spaces.
- Protect Your PIN: Always shield the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing it.
- Keep Your Card Safe: Never hand over your ATM card to anyone, and ensure it stays in your possession at all times.
By following these precautions, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to ATM fraud.