Yobe Police Arrest Nine Over ATM, Phone Theft Syndicate

The Yobe State Police Command says it has successfully dismantled a criminal network specializing in ATM card and phone theft across the state.

                               

According to a statement released on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, nine suspects have been arrested in connection with the crimes.

The arrests followed a string of reports from victims of online fraud, phone snatching, and unauthorized bank withdrawals.

During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to the crimes and even demonstrated how they hacked into victims’ phones to retrieve PINs and passwords for fraudulent transfers.

Police say the following were recovered from the suspects:

• 12 Android phones

• ATM cards and other digital devices

• Various “tools” used in carrying out the cyber fraud

The Command confirmed that investigations are still ongoing and that all suspects will be charged to court once inquiries are complete.

Yobe State Commissioner of Police, CP Emmanuel Ado, commended the officers for their quick action and urged them to maintain the same level of vigilance.

He also issued a stern warning to hotel operators and landlords:

“Do not provide shelter for criminals. Anyone found harboring or aiding suspects will face prosecution.”

The arrests come amid growing concerns over digital fraud and rising phone theft across several northern states. Authorities say they’re stepping up efforts to protect residents and make Yobe one of the most secure states in the region.