Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube | Zim GBC News
Victim Raised Alarm, Public Pounced on Suspect Before He Could Flee
BULAWAYO – A 51-year-old man who allegedly posed as a helpful Good Samaritan at ATM points to steal bank cards has been arrested, with police discovering 21 ATM cards in his possession – evidence that he may have targeted multiple victims using the same swap-and-steal technique.
Caleb Moyo of Mpopoma, Bulawayo, was apprehended after a sharp-eyed woman from Old Luveve detected his ruse before any money could be taken from her account.
How the Scheme Worked
According to Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, the suspect’s modus operandi was carefully designed to exploit trust.
The arrest followed an incident at a local bank where a 53-year-old woman experienced difficulties while attempting to withdraw money.
“The suspect reportedly approached her under the pretext of offering assistance. While pretending to help, the suspect allegedly swapped the complainant’s bank card with another card belonging to an unknown person.”
Victim Raises Alarm
The woman became suspicious during the interaction and did not hesitate to act.
“The woman became suspicious and raised the alarm, prompting members of the public to pursue the suspect as he attempted to flee.”
The swift reaction from bystanders proved critical. Security personnel joined the chase, and Moyo was apprehended before he could escape the scene.
21 Cards Seized
Upon arrest, police searched the suspect and made a startling discovery.
“Upon arrest, the suspect was found in possession of 21 ATM cards, leading police to believe that he may have targeted multiple victims using the same method.”
Inspector Msebele explained the suspect’s method:
“Police investigations revealed that the suspect’s modus operandi involved stealing bank cards and later returning to withdraw cash after victims had left the scene, often unaware that their cards had been swapped.”
Lucky Escape for Complainant
The 53-year-old woman from Old Luveve was fortunate to detect the fraud immediately.
“The complainant was fortunate to detect the fraud before any money was withdrawn.”
Had she not raised the alarm, she could have left the ATM believing her transaction had simply failed – only to discover later that her card had been replaced with a worthless substitute while the suspect returned to drain her account.
Police Praise Public Action
Inspector Msebele commended the members of the public whose quick thinking led to the arrest.
“We commend members of the public for their swift action, which led to the suspect’s arrest.”
ATM Safety Tips
Following the incident, police urge bank clients to remain vigilant when using ATMs:
Do ✅: Shield your PIN at all times
Don’t ❌:Accept help from strangers at ATMs
Do ✅: Check your card is yours before leaving
Don’t ❌ : Let anyone see your screen
Do ✅: Report any suspicious behaviour immediately
Do ✅: Leave the ATM if something feels wrong
Do ✅: Use ATMs in well-lit, busy areas Don’t ❌: Insert your card if the machine looks tampered with.
If your card gets stuck or you experience difficulties, cancel the transaction immediately and contact your bank directly – not a stranger offering assistance.
Case Summary
Detail Information
Suspect Caleb Moyo, 51
Residence Mpopoma, Bulawayo
Victim 53-year-old woman, Old Luveve
Method “Good Samaritan” card swapping
Items seized 21 ATM cards
Outcome Suspect arrested, no money lost
Police spokesperson Insp Nomalanga Msebele.
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