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Police arrest syndicate targeting banks’ customers

The Bauchi State Police Command says its operatives have apprehended three members of a notorious four-man syndicate that has been preying on bank customers across Bauchi, Borno and Kano states.

The syndicate, notorious for using locally fabricated “Chori” master keys to break into victims’ vehicles, has been implicated in a string of thefts.

State Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakil, said the suspects were tracked down following a tip-off that led police operatives to their hideout. But the leader of the gang remains at large.

The arrested suspects, including Mustapha Bukar, 42; Mustapha Abubakar, 47 and Habibu Tijjani, 30, have reportedly admitted to their involvement in multiple robberies, including an incident on January 27, 2025. On that occasion, they trailed a 43-year old businessman who had withdrawn a substantial sum from FCMB Bank in Bauchi.

Sensing he was being followed, the victim alerted his family and the police, prompting swift intervention. Officers managed to apprehend three of the suspects, while the fourth evaded capture.

Investigations have revealed that the gang’s modus operandi involved closely monitoring bank customers who withdraw large sums before following them home. Once their targets have parked their vehicles, the criminals would use their improvised master keys to gain entry and steal valuables. Honda vehicles are reportedly more susceptible due to their relatively weaker locking mechanisms.

Recovered from the suspects were three “Chori” keys and two Honda saloon cars. The police say the arrested individuals have been cooperating with investigators and providing leads that could result in the capture of the gang’s fugitive leader.

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Meanwhile, Bauchi State Commissioner of Police, Auwal Muhammad, has advised residents to exercise caution when leaving banks, avoid parking in secluded areas, and refrain from carrying large amounts of cash in public. He also urged the public to report any suspicious activity around financial institutions or residential areas.

The police have reiterated calls for vigilance as investigations continue.

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Police arrest syndicate targeting banks’ customers

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Police arrest syndicate targeting banks’ customers

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