Visually-Impaired Widow Loses ₦2 Million to ATM Fraud in Anambra
The Incident
A visually-impaired widow in Anambra State has become a victim of a brazen ATM fraud. She lost over N2 million in just minutes to an unidentified woman who allegedly stole her Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card. This shocking incident took place at an ATM point in Nnewi, located within the Nnewi North Local Government Area, over the weekend.
Discovery of the Theft
The theft came to light on Tuesday when the widow reported multiple unauthorized debit alerts to her bank. Surveillance footage from the bank revealed the shocking moment when the suspect, dressed in a striking red top and black trousers, took advantage of the elderly woman’s visual impairment. She pretended to offer assistance while executing her deceitful plan.
The Viral Video
The 42-second video has since gone viral on social media platforms. It shows the suspect deftly swapping the victim’s ATM card with an expired one while pretending to help her navigate the machine. This act highlights not only the vulnerability of individuals with disabilities but also the urgent need for increased awareness and security measures at ATMs.
The Widow’s Experience
Recounting her harrowing experience at the bank on Thursday, the distraught widow shared her struggle with operating the ATM due to her condition. “I went to the ATM to withdraw some cash, but I couldn’t operate the machine properly because of my condition,” she explained. “A lady standing nearby offered to help me. She took my card, got my PIN, and swapped it with an expired one. I was unaware of what had happened until I started receiving debit alerts on my phone.”
In just minutes, the fraudulent woman withdrew over N2 million from her account. “This is such a devastating experience, especially at a time when I desperately need funds to make transactions,” she lamented.
Bank Officials’ Advice
Bank officials emphasized the importance of vigilance when using ATMs. They urged customers, particularly those who are vulnerable like the widow, to avoid sharing their PINs with strangers. “If you encounter difficulties at an ATM, seek assistance from authorized bank personnel instead of relying on bystanders,” one official advised.
Police Investigation
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed that an investigation is underway to apprehend the suspect. Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochukwu Ikenga stated that all intelligence-gathering tools have been deployed to track down the perpetrator. “The Command is aware of a trending video showing a lady at an ATM in Nnewi swapping the card of a 58-year-old visually-impaired woman and withdrawing N2 million in parts,” Ikenga said.
Ikenga further added that residents of Nnewi and surrounding areas are being urged to provide any useful information that could lead to identifying and arresting the suspect and any potential accomplices. “The CP has directed investigators to reach out to the victim and gather all necessary information to aid the probe,” he stated.
A Call for Community Vigilance
This incident serves as a stark reminder for all bank customers about potential risks associated with using ATMs, particularly for those who may require assistance. As technology advances, so do tactics used by fraudsters. Community vigilance and support can play crucial roles in preventing such incidents from occurring in the future.
As investigations continue, many hope for swift justice for the widow who has suffered not only financial loss but also emotional distress during what should have been a simple banking transaction.
