Aam Olas Ep 215: ATM Fraud Gang Arrested in Takht Bhai
In Aam Olas Ep 215, I visited Takht Bhai, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where police arrested two individuals involved in stealing ATM cards and personal credentials to conduct unauthorised transactions.
According to police, the suspects had been active for several months, causing financial losses amounting to millions of rupees.
This episode sheds light on a form of crime that often goes unnoticed, yet directly harms financially fragile citizens.
Aam Olas Ep 215
Police Investigation and Arrest
During a press briefing, DSP Bashir Ahmed Yousafzai stated that multiple gangs were operating across the Takht Bhai Circle, exploiting ATM users.
On the instructions of DPO Mardan, Dr Zahidullah, police deployed personnel in plain clothes near ATMs to monitor suspicious activity.
As a result:
- Two suspects were arrested
- One identified as Shahid, son of Guldaullah (resident of Alam Ganj, Katlang)
- The second is Sulaiman, son of Shirin
Recoveries Made by Police
During the operation, police recovered:
- Dozens of ATM cards from different banks
- Biometric machines
- Various identity cards
- Rs. 12 lakh in cash
Cases were registered at Takht Bhai Police Station, and further investigation is ongoing to identify additional accomplices.
Police Statement to Aam Olas
When questioned during the episode, the police explained that:
- An FIR was received after a citizen was deceived at an ATM
- Surveillance was intensified immediately
- The suspects were apprehended after careful monitoring
Police clarified that while initial confessions were recorded, the investigation is still in progress.
The Accused’s Statement
During the interview, the suspects admitted their involvement and expressed regret.
According to police records:
- Shahid is described as the mastermind
- He had previously been arrested for similar offences and spent time in custody
- The second suspect acted as a facilitator and worked as a rickshaw driver
Police emphasised that remorse does not exempt anyone from legal responsibility.
Exploiting Welfare Beneficiaries
Police revealed that many victims were individuals receiving assistance from the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), a welfare initiative for financially vulnerable citizens.
Targeting such individuals makes this crime particularly serious, as it deprives families of essential support.
Aam Olas: Awareness Against Financial Crime
Aam Olas Ep 215 aims to:
- Inform the public about common ATM fraud methods
- Encourage caution while using banking services
- Highlight police efforts to protect citizens
Financial crime does not just steal money, it steals trust and dignity.
Final Reflection
Crimes that exploit the weak leave lasting scars.
Let this episode serve as:
- A warning to criminals
- A lesson for the public
- A reminder to stay vigilant
If you have thoughts or concerns, feel free to share them in the comments.