The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has prohibited the use of Point-of-Sale (POS) machines and other electronic mobile money transaction devices within police stations and other law enforcement facilities across the country. 

According to a statement from Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, this prohibition is a response to public complaints regarding alleged extortion involving collusion between POS machine operators and certain police personnel to facilitate illegal transactions.

Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, issued a warning that individuals who violate this directive will be subject to sanctions at police commands and formations, including the leadership within such establishments.

The FPRO said, “The ban is aimed at preserving the integrity and security of police operations and forestalling perceived corrupt practices.

“It is also aimed at clearing the Commands/Formations of possible criminal intrusion under such guise and maintaining discipline within the Force.

“Despite previous directives, it has come to the attention of the Force leadership that some Commands and Formations continue to flout this regulation.

“As such, the IGP warns that any violation of this ban will attract severe sanctions on the leadership of the affected Commands and Formations.

“The IGP notes that the use of electronic payment devices within police facilities poses significant risks, including the potential compromise of sensitive information, financial irregularities, and the facilitation of illicit activities, therefore, strict adherence to this directive is non-negotiable.

“The IGP urges all officers and personnel to comply with this directive without exception and warns that any police officer or POS operator found contravening this order or conniving to conduct illicit financial transactions will face appropriate disciplinary action.

“They will also face criminal action in accordance with the extant laws and regulations, and the Command as well as the Formation leadership will equally be held responsible.”