Br+bery and Corr¥ption: IGP bans POS operators from operating within 200 metres of police stations nationwide

The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has ordered a nationwide restriction stopping Point-of-Sale (POS) operators from operating within 200 metres of police stations and other police formations across Nigeria.

The directive was contained in an internal police wireless message circulated nationwide, with authorities ordering immediate enforcement. Senior officers were warned that violations within their jurisdictions could attract disciplinary consequences.

According to the police, the decision followed concerns over the “alarming proliferation” of POS operators around police facilities, with authorities alleging that some outlets had become linked to bribery and illegal financial transactions within and around police premises.

The communication stated that the development was affecting ongoing reform efforts aimed at improving transparency, accountability and public trust in the Force. Police authorities also said they observed with “utmost dismay” the increasing presence of POS operators near formations, alongside allegations that some were being used as channels for corrupt dealings.

The Force Headquarters directed that no POS operator should be allowed to operate within a 200-metre radius of any police station, divisional headquarters or police formation nationwide.

The order further warned that Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police and heads of formations would be held “vicariously liable” for any breach recorded in their areas.

Security analysts described the move as part of renewed efforts to tackle allegations of extortion, especially claims that some officers allegedly force suspects or civilians to make transfers or withdrawals through nearby POS agents during encounters at police facilities.

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