Police order POS operators to stay 200 metres away from stations nationwide

The Nigeria Police Force has directed Point of Sale (POS) operators across the country to remain at least 200 metres away from police stations and formations over allegations of extortion and corrupt dealings involving some police personnel and POS agents.

The directive was contained in an internal wireless message issued by the Inspector-General of Police and obtained by Very Nigerian on Tuesday.

According to the signal, the police authorities expressed concern over the growing presence of POS operators around police facilities and reports linking some of them to corrupt practices and extortion.

The message noted that the development was undermining ongoing reform efforts aimed at promoting transparency, accountability and professionalism within the force.

“INGENPOL has observed with utmost dismay the alarming rate at which Point of Sale (POS) operators are increasingly conducting transactions in/around the vicinity of police formations,” the message stated.

It further referenced “numerous allegations of complicity in corrupt practices/extortion” involving some operators.

The police hierarchy consequently ordered that no POS operator should be allowed to operate within a 200-metre radius of any police formation nationwide.

“INGENPOL therefore directs that on no account should any POS operator be seen within a 200-meter radius of any police formation,” the directive added.

The order also warned Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police and heads of police formations that they would be held responsible for any violation within their jurisdictions.

Command commissioners and heads of formations were instructed to ensure strict compliance and enforcement of the directive.

The development follows longstanding public complaints alleging that some police officers use nearby POS operators to facilitate extortion, with victims allegedly forced to make transfers or withdraw cash around checkpoints and police stations.

Human rights organisations and anti-corruption groups have repeatedly condemned the practice, warning that it weakens public confidence in law enforcement institutions and encourages abuse of power.

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