Fake bank alert: Police recover N3m stolen electronics in Bauchi

The Bauchi State Police Command has apprehended a 34-year-old individual, Alex T. Bwacha, for defrauding a businessman of electronic devices worth N3 million in Bauchi, Nigeria. The police also recovered all stolen items, consisting of three television sets, a sound bar, two air conditioners, and a home theatre. According to the command's spokesperson, SP Nafiu Habib, the suspect allegedly collaborated with another man, Bako Akin, currently at large, to perpetrate the fraud through a false bank alert.

The suspects visited the victim's shop on Fire Service Junction, Bauchi, on October 26, 2026, posing as legitimate customers. They purchased a range of electronic devices, valued at N3 million, before leaving with the items. The businessman reported the incident to the B Division of the police command on October 30, 2026, triggering an investigation.

As a result, Alex T. Bwacha was apprehended, and part of the stolen goods were recovered from him. The remaining items were subsequently recovered in Jos, Plateau State. The arrested suspect is currently in custody, while authorities continue to pursue the fleeing accomplice. The police commissioner, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, commended the detectives for their successful recovery efforts and cautioned fraudsters against using false bank alerts to defraud merchants.

He also advised business owners to verify payments directly with their banks before delivering goods to customers.