The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive prohibiting the utilization of Point-of-Sales (POS) machines and other electronic mobile money transaction devices within police stations nationwide.
Egbetokun underscored the necessity of this ban in light of public concerns regarding alleged unlawful transactions conducted by POS operators within certain police units.
Speaking through the force spokesman, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police chief emphasized that the ban was implemented to uphold the integrity and security of police operations. He further clarified that the directive aimed to preempt potential corrupt activities and prevent criminal infiltration disguised as legitimate transactions, thereby maintaining discipline within the police force.
Egbetokun warned that any command or formation found violating the order would face serious repercussions. Additionally, both police officers and POS operators implicated in such violations would be subject to severe consequences.
The statement reads in part: “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 and criminal action in accordance with the extant laws and regulations, and the Command/Formation leadership will equally be held responsible.”