The Rapid Response Squad of the Ekiti State Police Command has taken three individuals into custody for their alleged involvement in ATM fraud. The suspects were identified as 39-year-old Timilehin Akinola, 46-year-old Ojo Peter, and 35-year-old Ademola Akinware. SP Sunday Abutu, the police spokesperson, confirmed that the arrests followed a tip-off regarding the group’s activity at the Wema Bank Okesa branch in Ado-Ekiti.
When officers arrived at the scene, the men attempted to escape on a TVS motorcycle. Police engaged in a pursuit and caught the suspects in the Basiri neighborhood. A subsequent search revealed 16 ATM cards from various financial institutions in their possession. Authorities believe the group targeted people at ATM terminals to steal or swap their cards before using them to drain victim accounts.
Ekiti State Commissioner of Police Falade Adegoroye Michael has ordered a thorough investigation to uncover any additional members of this criminal network. The police department is encouraging the public to exercise caution when conducting banking transactions and to report any unusual behavior to law enforcement.
