Two men who wear Islamic female clothing to conceal their identities are to blame for at least five bank robberies since Dec. 23 in the Northeast, East Oak Lane and East Mount Airy sections of the city, authorities say.
According to the Philadelphia Police and FBI Violent Crimes Task Force, the most recent heist occurred April 4 at the Wells Fargo branch, at 700 Adams Ave. At about 12:07 p.m., one male entered the bank, presented a threatening demand note to a teller, obtained an undisclosed amount of cash and fled on foot in an unknown direction.
The suspect was described as black, 25 to 30 years old, 6 feet 1 inch tall and lean. He had a dark complexion and possibly short hair or a shaved head. He wore “black Muslim garb,” including a headdress and veil that covered almost all of his face, and carried a white bag with red lettering.
Authorities released surveillance photos from that incident, as well as a similar one involving both suspects on March 20 at the Sovereign Bank branch, at 8319 Stenton Ave. The men entered the bank at 12:23 p.m., presented a threatening demand note to a teller, obtained an undisclosed amount of cash and fled on foot in an unknown direction.
Both suspects were described as black, thin and about 5 feet 10 inches tall. They both wore black clothing and veils to cover their heads, faces and bodies.
The same men are suspects in the robberies of the More Bank branch at 470 W. Cheltenham Ave., on Dec. 23 and March 14, as well as the 3rd Federal branch at 6633 Roosevelt Blvd. on Jan. 6.
The suspects are considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached. Tipsters should call 215–686-TIPS or 215–418–4000. In an emergency, call 911. ••
