The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has directed the immediate removal of Point-of-Sale (POS) operators located within 200 metres of police stations and other police formations nationwide.

The directive was conveyed through an internal wireless communication circulated to commands and formations across the country, with the police hierarchy ordering strict compliance from all officers and commanders.

According to the signal, the Nigeria Police Force expressed concern over the increasing concentration of POS operators around police facilities, describing the trend as damaging to ongoing reforms within the Force.

Police authorities said the presence of the operators near stations had generated allegations of bribery, illegal cash transactions and other unethical practices involving officers and members of the public.

The communication noted that the Force leadership viewed the situation with serious concern, warning that the continued operation of POS agents around police formations could weaken efforts aimed at promoting accountability, transparency and public trust in policing.

Under the new order, no POS outlet is permitted to function within a 200-metre radius of any police station, divisional headquarters or other police facility across the country.

The directive also placed responsibility for enforcement on senior officers, including Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police and heads of formations, who may face disciplinary consequences for violations recorded within their jurisdictions.

Security observers say the move is part of broader efforts by the police leadership to address longstanding accusations of extortion and unofficial financial dealings involving some officers, particularly allegations that civilians and suspects are often directed to nearby POS operators for cash withdrawals during encounters at police facilities.

Human rights groups and civil society organisations have, over the years, criticised the close proximity of POS operators to police stations, arguing that the practice has sometimes encouraged abuse of power and unregulated financial transactions.