Yobe State Police Crack Down on Phone Theft, ATM Card Fraud Syndicate, Arrest 9 Suspects

Damaturu, Yobe State  October 4, 2025

In a significant blow to cybercrime in northeastern Nigeria, the Yobe State Police Command has successfully arrested nine suspects linked to a sophisticated criminal syndicate specializing in phone theft and ATM card fraud.

The suspects, all young men aged between 18 and 25, were apprehended at Lale Guest Hotel in Damaturu following a meticulous intelligence-led operation spearheaded by the State Intelligence Department (SID). The operation highlights the command’s proactive approach to tackling cyber-related crimes that have increasingly affected residents across the state.
According to the police, the group engaged in stealing mobile phones to illegally access victims’ bank accounts. Using stolen devices, the syndicate manipulated security features and retrieved personal identification numbers (PINs) and passwords, enabling them to execute fraudulent transactions through ATMs and online platforms.

During interrogations, the suspects confessed to their involvement and demonstrated the techniques they employed to compromise victims’ phones. Among those arrested are Abba Ali (23), Abdullahi Mohammed (22), Yakubu Ba’a Mai (19), Usman Mohammed (23), Abubakar Mohammed (25), Mohammed Umar (21), Sani Aminu (18), and Umar Abba (25), hailing from various parts of Yobe and neighboring Borno State.

The police also recovered twelve Android phones and other incriminating items believed to be tools of their criminal trade. The investigation is ongoing, and the suspects are expected to be charged in court upon completion of inquiries.
Commissioner of Police, CP Emmanuel Ado, praised the intelligence officers and operatives involved in the successful crackdown. He urged them to maintain the momentum in combating crime and reiterated the Command’s commitment to making Yobe State a hostile environment for criminals.
Furthermore, CP Ado issued a stern warning to hotel operators and business owners across the state, cautioning against providing refuge to criminals. He stated that anyone found aiding or harboring suspects would face stringent legal action.

This breakthrough sends a clear message to criminal syndicates operating within and beyond Yobe State that law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and determined to safeguard the security and property of citizens.