A 35-year-old woman, Blessing Oleru, has been arrested by the Rivers State Police Command for her alleged involvement in an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) debit card swap fraud worth over ₦500,000 in Port Harcourt. According to the police, Oleru’s arrest followed a report by the victim, who wishes to remain anonymous.
The incident occurred on November 26, 2024, at a bank along the Garrison axis in Port Harcourt. The victim had attempted to withdraw cash from an ATM, but the machine malfunctioned. Oleru, who was standing nearby, offered assistance but instead swapped the victim’s debit card.
Unaware of the swap, the victim left the ATM, only to begin receiving debit alerts totaling ₦523,600.00. The police were notified, and a coordinated intelligence operation led to Oleru’s arrest on February 5, 2025. During interrogation, she confessed to the crime, and a Moniepoint Point of Sale (PoS) machine was recovered from her possession.
The Rivers State Police Command has assured that the investigation is ongoing, with efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate. This arrest demonstrates the command’s commitment to combating financial crimes and protecting citizens’ interests.
ATM debit card swap fraud is a growing concern in Nigeria, with several cases reported in recent years ¹. In this type of fraud, criminals swap a person’s legitimate ATM card with a fake one, allowing them to gain unauthorized access to the victim’s bank account.
To avoid falling victim to this type of fraud, it is essential to be cautious when using ATMs. Individuals should be wary of strangers offering assistance, cover the keypad when entering their PIN, and regularly check their bank statements for suspicious transactions.
The police have urged citizens to report any suspicious activity promptly, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in combating financial crimes.
The arrest of Blessing Oleru serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in protecting one’s financial information. As the investigation continues, the Rivers State Police Command remains committed to ensuring justice is served and protecting the interests of citizens.
