Surveillance photo
Bandits attempted to rob two Northeast Philadelphia banks last week in apparently unrelated incidents.
The first hold-up involved a man wearing what police described as “Muslim garb” at a bank in Castor Gardens last Wednesday. He wore a black gown and head covering with a veil that covered his entire face except for a small slit for his eyes. He entered the Wells Fargo Bank at 6611 Castor Ave. at about 2:10 p.m. and handed a threatening demand note to a teller, authorities said. The robber failed to obtain money, however, and fled on foot eastbound on Magee Avenue. No injuries were reported. He was described as black, 5 feet 6 inches tall and thin, wearing “Muslim garb.”
On Friday at about 3:23 p.m., another bandit entered the Wells Fargo at 5119 Frankford Ave., handed a demand note to a teller and obtained an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the area. He was described as black, in his 20s, about 5 feet 7 inches tall, with a thin build. He wore a gray hoodie with “NIKE AIR” printed across the chest in black, blue jeans and a blue backpack. He also wore keys around his neck attached to an “I (heart) Jesus” lanyard.
Call 215–686-TIPS or text to PPD TIP to report information about the crimes. If you see either robber, call 911. Tipsters can also call the FBI at 215–418–4000. ••
Surveillance photo
