Police ban use of POS, other e-Payment transactions in stations, force facilities

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

A statement by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, said the ban is part of the response by the Force to public outcry over alleged extortion through POS machine operators who connive with certain police operatives to perpetuate illegal and illicit transactions

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, therefore, warned that violators will face sanctions at police commands and formations, including the leadership at such formations.

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.”