The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun has banned the use of Point of Sale (POS) machines and other electronic mobile money transaction devices within the premises of police stations and facilities across the country. This was made known in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, which stated that the development was a result of “public outcry on alleged illegal and illicit transactions through POS machine operators and connivance with certain police operatives”.
He said, “The ban is aimed at preserving the integrity and security of police operations, forestalling perceived corrupt practices, as well as clearing the Commands/Formations of possible criminal intrusion under such guise, and maintaining discipline within the Force.
“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 non0negotiable.
“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 extant laws and regulations, and the Command/Formation leadership will equally be held responsible.”