Police Arrest Three for Robbing Bank Customers in Bauchi

The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested three members of a robbery syndicate that specializes in tracking and robbing bank customers who withdraw large sums of money.

The suspects—Mustapha Bukar, 42, from Maiduguri, Borno State; Mustapha Abubakar, 47; and Habibu Abubakar Tijjani, 30, both from Kano State—were apprehended on January 28, 2025. Authorities say they monitored victims before striking in Bauchi, Borno, and Kano states.

The gang reportedly used locally fabricated master keys, known as Chori, to gain unauthorized access to their victims’ vehicles and valuables.

Bauchi Police Command spokesperson, CSP Mohammed Wakil, told journalists on Friday that the suspects were caught while attempting to rob a 43-year-old businessman who had withdrawn a large sum from an FCMB branch in Bauchi on January 27, 2025.

“As they trailed him to his residence, the victim became suspicious and alerted his family and the police. A swift response led to the suspects’ arrest,” Wakil said.

During interrogation, the suspects confessed to their involvement in multiple robberies across different states. They revealed that they specifically targeted individuals leaving banks with large withdrawals. Once their victims parked, they used Chori keys to unlock vehicles and steal cash, with Honda cars being their preferred targets due to their vulnerable locking mechanisms.

Police recovered two Toyota Honda saloon cars used in the crimes, along with the fabricated master keys. Wakil also disclosed that the suspects provided vital information that could help apprehend their ringleader, who is still at large.

Bauchi State Police Commissioner, CP Musa Muhammad, urged residents to remain vigilant, especially after leaving financial institutions. He advised against carrying large amounts of cash and parking in isolated areas. Suspicious activities should be reported immediately to the police.

For assistance, residents can contact the police via these numbers: 07068235368, 08034844393, 08151849417, and 09053872273.