In a bid to maintain the integrity of its operations and curb potential corrupt practices, the Nigeria Police Force has reiterated its ban on the use of Point of Sales (PoS) machines and other electronic transaction devices within police stations and facilities.
The announcement, made through a statement by police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi, comes after persistent reports of alleged illegal transactions facilitated by PoS operators in collusion with certain police personnel.
The statement read, “The Nigeria Police Force, following public outcry on alleged illegal and illicit transactions through point-of-sale (POS) machine operators and connivance with certain police operatives, hereby reiterates the ban on the utilization POS machines and other electronic mobile money transaction devices within police stations and other police facilities nationwide. 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.
“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.”
Adejobi emphasized that the ban aims to preserve the integrity and security of police operations, deter perceived corrupt practices, and safeguard against possible criminal infiltration under the guise of electronic transactions.
Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a stern warning, stating that any violation of the ban will result in severe sanctions against the leadership of the affected Commands and Formations.
Highlighting the risks associated with the use of electronic payment devices within police facilities, Egbetokun stressed the potential compromise of sensitive information, financial irregularities, and the facilitation of illicit activities.
The directive underscores the non-negotiable need for strict adherence to the ban, signaling the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to upholding discipline and ensuring transparency within its ranks.
