Adebayo Adenrele
The Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of Ekiti State Police Command has arrested three suspects, namely Timilehin Akinola, 39 years; Ojo Peter, 46 years; and Ademola Akinware, 35 years, suspected to be members of a syndicate specialising in ATM card theft and fraud.
The suspects were arrested following credible intelligence regarding their presence at the ATM gallery of Wema Bank, Okesa Branch, Ado-Ekiti.
This was contained in a statement signed and made available to journalists by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu.
The statement continues, “Upon receipt of the information, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) were swiftly deployed to the scene. 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 conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of sixteen (16) ATM cards belonging to different banks and individuals.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects specialise in hijacking and swapping ATM cards from unsuspecting members of the public at ATM points within bank premises and subsequently using the cards to fraudulently withdraw funds from the victims’ bank accounts.
“The Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command, CP Falade Adegoroye Michael, has directed that the investigation be intensified with a view to identifying other members of the syndicate and establishing the full extent of their criminal activities.
“The Command therefore enjoins members of the public to remain vigilant when using ATM facilities and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or contact the Command on 08062335577”.
10th AUGUST, 2026 .
