The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested three members of a four-man syndicate that specializes in robbing bank customers.
The gang also uses locally made master keys to break into victims’ vehicles.
In a statement on Friday, the command’s spokesperson, Ahmed Wakil, said the syndicate operates across Bauchi, Borno, and Kano states.
The arrested suspects are Mustapha Bukar, 42; Mustapha Abubakar, 47; and Habibu Tijjani, 30. Their leader is still on the run.
“The modus operandi of the suspects involves monitoring bank customers who withdraw substantial amounts of money with the intention of robbing them,” Wakil said.
He explained that the criminals use locally fabricated master keys, known as ‘Chori,’ to unlock and enter victims’ vehicles.
Wakil said the suspects were caught on January 28, 2025, after a businessman who had withdrawn a large sum from FCMB Bank in Bauchi noticed he was being followed.
“The suspects followed him to his residence, positioning their vehicles strategically as they awaited his exit, intending to rob him of his funds,” Wakil said.
The businessman alerted his family to secure his car and immediately contacted the police. This led to the arrest of three suspects.
“During the investigation, all apprehended suspects confessed to their involvement and provided crucial information that will aid in the capture of the ringleader, who is still at large,” he added.
The police recovered three locally made master keys and two Toyota Honda saloon vehicles from the gang.
Wakil warned that the criminals targeted people withdrawing money from banks, tracking them to their destinations before breaking into their cars. He also noted that Honda vehicles were particularly vulnerable due to weak locks.
The State Commissioner of Police, Auwal Muhammad, advised residents to be cautious when leaving banks, avoid parking in lonely areas, and report any suspicious activity.
He said, “We urge the public to take necessary precautions, avoid carrying large sums in public, and inform security agencies of any suspicious movements around financial institutions.”
The police have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to arrest the gang leader and bring him to justice.
