Extortion Allegations: IGP Orders Removal of POS Operators Near Police Stations Nationwide

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has ordered the removal of Point of Sale (POS) operators located near police stations and formations across Nigeria following allegations linking some operators and police personnel to extortion and corrupt practices.

The directive was contained in an internal police wireless message obtained on Tuesday, directing that no POS operator should operate within a 200-metre radius of any police facility nationwide.

According to the signal, the police hierarchy expressed concern over the growing presence of POS operators around police stations and allegations that some officers use the operators to facilitate illegal cash collections from members of the public.

“INGENPOL has observed with utmost dismay the alarming rate at which Point of Sale (POS) operators are increasingly conducting transactions in/around the vicinity of police formations,” the message stated.

The police authorities said the development was undermining ongoing reform efforts aimed at improving transparency, accountability and professionalism within the force.

The signal further noted that there had been “numerous allegations of complicity in corrupt practices/extortion” involving some POS operators operating close to police facilities.

As part of the directive, the IGP ordered strict enforcement of the new restriction across all commands and formations.

“INGENPOL therefore directs that on no account should any POS operator be seen within a 200-meter radius of any police formation,” the message added.

Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police and heads of police formations were also warned that they would be held responsible for any violation of the order within their jurisdictions.

The directive instructed command commissioners and heads of formations to closely monitor compliance and ensure immediate enforcement.

The development follows repeated complaints by Nigerians who accuse some police officers of forcing civilians to make instant transfers or withdraw cash through nearby POS agents during alleged extortion incidents at checkpoints and police stations.

Human rights organisations and anti-corruption advocates have long criticised the practice, warning that it fuels abuse of power and weakens public confidence in law enforcement institutions.

The Nigeria Police Force has yet to issue a public statement on how the directive will be implemented nationwide.