The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a 35-year-old woman, Blessing Oleru, for her alleged involvement in a debit card swapping syndicate. Oleru, who is accused of specializing in swapping Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards belonging to unsuspecting victims, was apprehended following a police investigation.
According to the command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, Oleru defrauded a male victim of N523,600 before her arrest. The victim had reported the incident to the Olu Obasanjo Police Station after Oleru allegedly swapped his debit card while he attempted to withdraw cash from an ATM.
“The victim attempted to withdraw cash from an ATM, but the machine malfunctioned. Oleru, who was standing nearby pretending to carry out a transaction, offered to assist but instead swapped the victim’s debit card,” Iringe-Koko explained.
Unaware of the swap, the victim left the ATM and later began receiving debit alerts totaling N523,600. Following the report, the police launched an investigation, which led to Oleru’s arrest on February 5.
During interrogation, Oleru confessed to the crime. A Moniepoint Point of Sale (POS) machine was also recovered from her.
“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the debit card swapping syndicate who are still at large,” Iringe-Koko added.
She emphasized the Rivers State Police Command’s dedication to combating financial crimes and ensuring the safety of citizens. “This arrest underscores our commitment to protecting citizens and tackling criminal activities in the state,” she stated.
