Fresh Police Directive Targets POS Operators Around Stations Nationwide
The directive was reportedly issued through an internal wireless message from the Inspector-General of Police and circulated to police commands nationwide.
According to the police authorities, concerns have continued to grow over the increasing presence of POS operators around police facilities and allegations connecting some operators to corrupt dealings involving security personnel.
The police hierarchy reportedly stated that the development was undermining ongoing reform efforts aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and professionalism within the force.
In the communication, the police expressed “utmost dismay” over what it described as the alarming rate at which POS operators conduct transactions around police formations.
The directive further alleged that several complaints had linked some operators to corrupt practices and extortion activities around police stations and checkpoints.
As part of the new order, the force directed that no POS operator should be allowed to operate within a 200-metre radius of any police formation across Nigeria.
Senior police officers, including Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and Commissioners of Police, were also warned that they could be held responsible for violations occurring within their jurisdictions.
The directive additionally instructed commanders and heads of formations to monitor compliance and ensure strict enforcement nationwide.
The development is believed to be connected to longstanding public complaints alleging that some security personnel use nearby POS operators to facilitate extortion and receive cash transfers from civilians during encounters at checkpoints and police facilities.
In recent years, several Nigerians have accused some officers of directing victims of alleged extortion to make transfers or withdraw cash through POS agents stationed close to police formations.
Human rights advocates and anti-corruption groups have repeatedly raised concerns over the trend, warning that the practice contributes to abuse of power and weakens public trust in law enforcement institutions.
