The Nigeria Police Force has demoted an inspector and a corporal after they were found guilty of using a Point of Sale (POS) machine to extort money from members of the public in Delta State.
The disciplinary action followed an internal investigation into allegations that the officers had been collecting money from motorists and other road users through electronic transfers using a POS terminal while on duty. The incident, which attracted widespread public attention, sparked renewed concerns about corruption and misconduct within the police force.
Police authorities said the officers’ actions violated the Force’s code of conduct and undermined ongoing efforts to improve professionalism, accountability and public confidence in policing. Following the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings, the inspector was reduced in rank to sergeant, while the corporal was demoted to constable.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining discipline among its personnel, stressing that officers who abuse their positions for personal gain would face appropriate sanctions. It noted that corruption and extortion remain unacceptable and warned that any officer found engaging in similar misconduct would be dealt with in accordance with established disciplinary procedures.
Police authorities also encouraged members of the public to continue reporting cases of extortion, harassment and other forms of misconduct by officers through official complaint channels. According to the Force, public cooperation is essential in identifying erring personnel and promoting greater accountability within the service.
The disciplinary action has been welcomed by civil society groups and members of the public, many of whom described it as a positive step towards restoring confidence in law enforcement. However, observers noted that sustained reforms, strict enforcement of disciplinary measures and continuous monitoring would be necessary to eliminate corrupt practices across the police force.
Security experts have also called for improved welfare, regular ethics training and stronger internal oversight to address the root causes of corruption within the service. They argue that while disciplinary actions serve as a deterrent, long-term institutional reforms are needed to build a more transparent, professional and citizen-focused police force.
The latest sanctions demonstrate the Nigeria Police Force’s determination to hold its personnel accountable and reinforce its zero-tolerance stance against extortion and abuse of office. Authorities expressed hope that the action would send a strong message to officers across the country that unethical conduct will not be tolerated.
SOURCE: PUNCH
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