IGP Cracks Down on Bribery, Bans POS Operators Near Police Stations Nationwide
The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has ordered a nationwide restriction preventing Point-of-Sale (POS) operators from carrying out business within 200 metres of police stations and other police formations across Nigeria.
The directive was contained in an internal police wireless message circulated across commands, with authorities ordering immediate enforcement of the new policy.
Senior police officers were also warned that any violation within their jurisdictions could attract disciplinary action.
According to the police, the decision followed concerns over the increasing number of POS operators around police facilities, with authorities alleging that some of the outlets had become channels for bribery and other illegal financial transactions within and around police premises.
The police explained that the growing presence of POS agents near stations was affecting ongoing reform efforts aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and public trust in the Force.
Authorities further stated that they observed with serious concern the rising use of POS operators around police formations, alongside allegations that some were being used for corrupt dealings involving officers and members of the public.
As part of the directive, no POS operator is expected to function within a 200-metre radius of any police station, divisional headquarters, or police formation nationwide.
The order also warned that Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police, and heads of police formations would be held responsible for any breach recorded within their areas of supervision.
Security analysts have described the move as part of renewed efforts to address allegations of extortion, especially claims that some officers allegedly compel suspects or civilians to make withdrawals or transfers through nearby POS agents during police encounters.
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