AYV News, March 18, 2025
The Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) has been commended for swiftly apprehending an individual involved in an impersonation scheme to fraudulently obtain a VISA Debit Card and withdraw funds from a customer’s account.
The suspect, a relative of the account holder, was caught at the bank’s Charlotte Street branch and handed over to the Sierra Leone Police on February 6, 2025.
Speaking on the matter, RCBank’s Head of Public Relations, Mr. Aruna Dumbuya, confirmed that the suspect presented the customer’s savings ID and driver’s license to secure the debit card through a newly recruited staff member. However, he noted that the case is now in the hands of the appropriate authorities, making it premature for the bank to make a conclusive statement.
Mr. Dumbuya also cautioned against misinformation, stating that certain individuals, including competitors’ associates posing as media practitioners, have attempted to exploit such incidents for personal gain through fabricated stories and extortion tactics. He emphasized that RCBank remains committed to transparency and upholding ethical banking practices.
Since Dr. Ekundayo W. Gilpin assumed leadership of RCBank in July 2017, the institution has transformed into a profitable and highly regarded financial entity in Sierra Leone.
Under his leadership, the bank has won over 200 local and international awards, solidifying its reputation as one of the country’s most successful financial institutions. Dr. Gilpin himself has received numerous accolades, including:Commander of the Order of the Rokel, Best Chief Executive Officer, One of the Most Influential Sierra Leoneans, Excellence in Leadership and Development, Medal of Honor, African Banker of the Year 2023 and Ambassador for Youths.
In January 2025, the West African Bankers Association (WABA) honored Dr. Gilpin with the West African Banker of the Year award, a recognition that was widely celebrated in Sierra Leone. He dedicated the award to the people of Sierra Leone, RCBank staff, and his family and friends.
Mr. Dumbuya highlighted RCBank’s remarkable growth over the past five years in asset base, equity, customer expansion, corporate social responsibility, and profit margins. He noted that under Dr. Gilpin’s leadership, profits surged from Le1.5 billion in 2016 to Le62.7 billion in 2017. The bank continues to experience steady growth and is projected to report a 40% profit increase in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Addressing concerns about misinformation, Mr. Dumbuya urged individuals to rely on RCBank’s Public Relations Unit for accurate updates rather than spreading unverified claims that could damage the bank’s reputation. He also warned against the unauthorized use of RCBank’s intellectual property, including logos, branding materials, and official images.
Emphasizing responsible leadership, Mr. Dumbuya called on Sierra Leoneans to support local businesses, promote domestic financial institutions, and help strengthen the country’s economy. He reiterated that RCBank remains dedicated to serving its stakeholders, including the Government of Sierra Leone, shareholders, staff, customers, the media, and the communities in which it operates.
The successful apprehension of the fraud suspect demonstrates RCBank’s commitment to securing depositors’ funds and maintaining the integrity of the banking sector. The bank continues to prioritize excellence, sound financial management, and the protection of public funds.
