In a significant breakthrough in the fight against cybercrime, the Yobe State Police Command, Damaturu has apprehended three suspects involved in a criminal syndicate that targeted ATM users in the state. On December 6, 2024, the State Intelligent Department (SID) arrested Sani Kasim, 35, Nura Umaru, 24, and Umar Suleman, 22, for their role in the syndicate.
The Modus Operandi
The suspects used a clever tactic to trick unsuspecting customers into revealing their PIN numbers while using ATMs. They would offer to assist the customers, then swap their ATM cards and withdraw cash from their accounts.
The police recovered 47 ATM cards, four cellphones, and a Mercedes Benz vehicle from the suspects. Six victims, including a visually impaired person who lost N181,550, have identified the suspects.
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The Commissioner of Police, CP Garba Ahmed, has directed detectives to intensify their investigation and pursue fleeing members of the syndicate. He urged the public to report any suspicious activity and warned that Yobe State will not be a safe haven for criminal elements.
To avoid falling victim to ATM fraud and related crimes, the Yobe State Police Command advises the public to follow these safety tips: Be aware of your surroundings. When using an ATM, look around for suspicious individuals or activities.Use a secure ATM: Choose an ATM located in a well-lit, secure area, such as a bank lobby or a reputable retail store. Cover the keypad. Use your free hand or a piece of paper to cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing your PIN. Keep your card secure. Hold onto your card at all times, and never let someone else handle it for you. Monitor your account. Regularly check your account statements to detect any suspicious transactions.
Avoid using ATMs with signs of tampering. If an ATM looks like it has been tampered with, do not use it. Use a debit card with chip technology. Chip-enabled cards are more secure than traditional magnetic stripe cards.
Keep your PIN confidential. Never share your PIN with anyone, and avoid using easily guessable PINs.
By following these safety tips, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to ATM fraud and related crimes said DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), in a statement made available to Daily Independent in Damaturu today.
