The Nigeria Police Force has introduced a nationwide restriction prohibiting Point of Sale (POS) operators from carrying out business activities within 200 metres of police stations, commands and other security formations across the country.
The directive was issued through an internal communication from the office of the Inspector-General of Police as authorities intensify efforts to address allegations of bribery, extortion and unethical financial dealings linked to some POS agents operating around police facilities.
According to details contained in the internal instruction, senior police authorities expressed concern over the growing concentration of POS operators close to police formations and the negative public perception associated with the practice.
The police leadership noted that the continued presence of the operators near stations and checkpoints has generated repeated accusations involving illegal cash collections and unapproved financial transactions allegedly connected to some officers.
Under the new order, police commands nationwide have been directed to ensure that no POS terminal operator conducts business within the specified distance from any police facility.
The directive further warned senior officers, including Commissioners of Police and heads of formations, to enforce full compliance within their jurisdictions or face accountability for violations recorded under their supervision.
The move is believed to be part of broader internal reforms aimed at improving transparency, strengthening public confidence and reducing corruption-related allegations within the force.
For several years, members of the public and civil society groups have raised concerns over situations where individuals allegedly paid money through POS agents stationed close to police checkpoints, detention centres and station premises.
Human rights advocates have repeatedly argued that the arrangement created an environment that encouraged abuse of authority and weakened trust in law enforcement institutions.
Security analysts said the latest restriction could reduce direct access to instant cash transactions around police formations and potentially limit activities linked to unofficial payments.
The development comes amid increasing pressure on security agencies to improve accountability standards and rebuild public confidence through stricter internal controls and operational reforms.