Fake bank alert: Police recover N3m stolen electronics in Bauchi
Bauchi State Police Arrest Man for Alleged Fraudulent Scheme
BAUCHI, Nigeria — The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested a 34-year-old man, Alex T. Bwacha, in connection with the alleged defrauding of a local businessman out of electronic appliances valued at 3 million naira.
Police spokesman SP Nafiu Habib announced the arrest in a statement released on Saturday. He detailed that Bwacha and an accomplice, identified as Bako Akin, who remains at large, are accused of using a counterfeit bank alert to deceive the victim.
On October 26, 2026, Bwacha and Akin purportedly visited the victim’s shop located at Fire Service Junction in Bauchi, posing as legitimate customers. They purchased several items, including a Hisense 50-inch television, a Hisense 58-inch television, a TCL 43-inch television, a Hisense sound bar, two Hisense air conditioners, and an LCT home theatre, amounting to a total of 3 million naira.
The 65-year-old businessman reported the incident to the ‘B’ Division of the police command on October 30, prompting an immediate investigation. As a result, Bwacha was apprehended, and several of the stolen items were recovered from him.
The investigation was expanded to Jos, Plateau State, where additional stolen items were also retrieved. Authorities confirmed that Bwacha is currently in custody while efforts continue to locate Akin.
Following the conclusion of the investigation, the police intend to charge Bwacha with fraud-related offenses. Police Commissioner Sani-Omolori Aliyu praised the detectives for their swift action in recovering the stolen goods and warned potential fraudsters about the consequences of using fake bank alerts to deceive traders. He also encouraged business owners to verify payments directly with their banks before handing over goods to customers.
