Ekiti police arrest three suspected ATM fraudsters, seize 16 cards

The Ekiti State Police Command has successfully apprehended three individuals suspected of operating a syndicate involved in ATM card theft and fraud. The arrests were made by the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Ado-Ekiti following credible intelligence regarding the suspects' presence at a Wema Bank ATM gallery.

According to SP Sunday Abutu, the command's Public Relations Officer, the suspects, identified as Timilehin Akinola, 39; Ojo Peter, 46; and Ademola Akinware, 35, attempted to evade capture on a motorcycle upon spotting the police operatives. A pursuit ensued, leading to their interception in the Basiri area of Ado-Ekiti.

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Upon sighting the operatives, the suspects, who were riding a TVS motorcycle, attempted to flee the area. The operatives immediately gave them a hot pursuit and successfully intercepted them at the Basiri area of Ado-Ekiti

A search of the suspects yielded a significant recovery: 16 ATM cards belonging to different banks and individuals. Preliminary investigations suggest the syndicate specialized in hijacking and swapping ATM cards from unsuspecting customers at ATM points, subsequently using the stolen cards to withdraw funds fraudulently from victims' accounts.

Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command, CP Falade Adegoroye Michael, has ordered an intensified investigation to identify other members of the alleged syndicate and ascertain the full scope of their criminal activities. The command is also urging the public to exercise caution and remain vigilant when using ATM facilities, encouraging prompt reporting of any suspicious activities.

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The suspects allegedly used the cards to withdraw funds fraudulently from victims' bank accounts