Four Arrested Over ₦285,000 Fraud in Borno as Police Recover 40 ATM Cards

The Borno State Police Command has arrested four suspects over an alleged financial fraud involving the withdrawal of ₦285,000 from a resident’s account in Maiduguri. The command’s spokesperson, ASP Nahum Daso, disclosed the development in a statement, explaining that the investigation began after a complaint was received from a resident identified as Unus Burum, who lives in the Shuwari II area of the state capital. The incident reportedly occurred when two young men approached the victim and claimed they could help increase his Moniepoint transaction limit.

According to the police, the victim handed over his mobile phone to the two men so they could assist him with the transaction limit upgrade. However, the suspects allegedly used the opportunity to gain access to his financial account and withdraw ₦285,000 without his permission. The victim reportedly discovered the unauthorised transaction and subsequently reported the incident to the police, prompting an investigation into the activities of the individuals involved.

Following the complaint, operatives of the State Intelligence Department reportedly traced the Point-of-Sale transactions to the agents allegedly connected to the incident. Further investigations led to the arrest of four suspects believed to have participated in the fraudulent operation. Police also recovered 40 ATM cards belonging to OPay and Moniepoint from the suspects. The arrested individuals reportedly confessed to their involvement during questioning, although the allegations remain subject to further investigation and possible prosecution.

The police command has continued its efforts to tackle financial crimes and protect residents from fraudulent activities involving digital banking and electronic payment platforms. The incident highlights the need for customers to remain cautious when handing their mobile phones or banking information to individuals claiming to offer financial assistance. Residents have been advised to use authorised customer-service channels when seeking help with transaction limits or account-related issues and to report suspicious activities promptly to law enforcement authorities.