Esther Salifu
A 35-year-old woman, Blessing Daberechi Oleru, has been apprehended by the Rivers State Police Command for allegedly swapping an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) debit card, resulting in a loss of over N500,000 in Port Harcourt.
The Rivers State Police Command has announced the arrest of a 35-year-old woman, Blessing Daberechi Oleru, for allegedly swapping an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) debit card, resulting in a loss of over N500,000 in Port Harcourt.
According to a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, Superintendent of Police Grace Iringe-Koko, the suspect’s arrest followed a report by the victim, who wishes to remain anonymous. The victim reported the incident on November 26, 2024, at the Olu-Obasanjo Police Station.
“This arrest demonstrates the Rivers State Police Command’s commitment to combating financial crimes and protecting citizens’ interests at all times.” She stated
The statement revealed that the victim had attempted to withdraw cash from an ATM at the Bank Garrison area in Port Harcourt, but the machine malfunctioned. Oleru, who was standing nearby, offered assistance but instead swapped the victim’s debit card. The victim left the ATM without realizing what had happened but soon began receiving debit alerts totaling N523,600.
Following a coordinated intelligence operation, police operatives arrested Oleru on February 5, 2025. During interrogation, she confessed to the crime, and a Moniepoint Point of Sale machine was recovered from her possession.
Iringe-Koko disclosed that the investigation is ongoing, with efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate. She emphasized the command’s commitment to combating financial crimes and protecting citizens’ interests.
