A suspected fraudster has revealed how he allegedly stole bank customers’ PINs by pretending to assist them at automated teller machines (ATMs) in Calabar, Cross River State.
According to a statement from the Cross River State Police Command, the suspect—whose name was not disclosed—targeted individuals who appeared to need help at ATM points. He would withhold their cards and observe as they entered their PINs before leaving the scene.
ASP Sunday Eitokpah, the command’s Public Relations Officer, shared these details in a video posted on the command’s Facebook page on Tuesday. Eitokpah stated that the suspect was apprehended on October 6, 2026, for allegedly defrauding unsuspecting ATM users.
Describing his alleged method, the suspect explained that he approached vulnerable customers who seemed to trust him. I go to the ATM and wait for customers who believe what I tell them or those who need help,” he admitted.
If you ask for my assistance, I switch the ATM to cardless transaction mode and keep your card. You may think your card is still inserted, but it isn’t.
The suspect further explained that while customers selected their transactions and entered their PINs, he noted the information and then left the premises.
After you choose a transaction whether withdrawal, transfer, or inquiry—and enter your password, I leave the place, he said.
Eitokpah added that the suspect memorized customers’ PINs and left with enough information to carry out fraudulent transactions elsewhere.
Victims would later realize their cards were missing and their accounts had been debited. The suspect allegedly collaborated with a getaway driver, who remains at large.
The police spokesperson noted that the local divisional police officer had been monitoring the suspect and had engaged with bank managers to address ATM-related fraud. Authorities urged the public to be vigilant when using ATMs and to avoid handing over their cards or PINs to strangers offering help.
