Intruder Caught Hiding in FCMB Calabar Ceiling After Alleged Attempt to Hack Bank Systems
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CALABAR — Tension erupted at a branch of First City Monument Bank (FCMB) in Calabar, Cross River State, on Tuesday morning after a man was discovered hiding inside the bank’s ceiling, allegedly in an attempt to breach internal computer systems overnight.
TJ News Nigeria gathered that the unidentified suspect had gained access to the banking hall during normal business hours on Monday and discreetly locked himself inside one of the restrooms.
Intrusion Discovered by Suspicious Staff
According to eyewitnesses, the man remained hidden within the bank’s ceiling space after closing hours, apparently waiting for staff and security personnel to vacate the premises.
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The following morning, staff returning to work reportedly noticed that one of the interior doors was locked from the inside. Repeated efforts to open the door failed, prompting suspicion.
After forcibly opening the door, bank officials discovered the man allegedly tampering with some of the bank’s internal IT systems. Several computer screens reportedly displayed strange commands, including messages such as “Restarting, click OK to accept,” suggesting a possible cyber intrusion attempt.
Viral Video Shows Arrest, Suspect Pleads for Mercy
A viral video from the scene, now circulating on social media, shows the suspect being forcibly pulled from the ceiling by security personnel. In the footage, the visibly shaken man pleads for mercy and claims he acted alone without any external collaborators.
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The video also shows some bystanders rough-handling the suspect before he was handed over to authorities.
Police Yet to Confirm Identity or Motive
As of press time, the Cross River State Police Command has not issued an official statement confirming the suspect’s identity or disclosing his motive. However, investigations are reportedly ongoing.
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Security experts say the incident highlights growing concerns over physical access vulnerabilities in financial institutions, particularly as cybercriminals increasingly target Nigerian banks.
A senior bank official, who asked not to be named, told TJ News Nigeria that the matter has been escalated to law enforcement and internal IT forensics teams for further investigation.
Key Takeaways:
- Suspect allegedly hid in FCMB restroom before climbing into ceiling.
- Discovered tampering with internal systems next morning.
- Viral video shows suspect pleading for mercy, claims to have acted alone.
- Police investigation ongoing; FCMB yet to release a formal statement.
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