Police warn POS operators against large transactions, cite kidnap risks

The Delta State Police Command has issued a stern warning to Point of Sale (POS) operators, urging them to avoid handling transactions above ₦500,000 to prevent being implicated in criminal activities, particularly kidnapping.

Police spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, highlighted a recent case where a POS operator processed a ransom payment of ₦4,000,000 for kidnappers, earning only ₦40,000 in profit. He stressed that operators engaging in such large transactions risk being traced and held accountable for facilitating criminal activities.

READ ALSO: Police arraign woman, 23, over alleged N450,000 theft

“Don’t be a tool for kidnappers to collect ransom,” Edafe warned in a statement on Thursday. “Transactions above ₦500,000 can get you into trouble. You might argue that you’re doing business, but before your lawyer gets you out, you may spend time in prison.”

Edafe urged POS operators to comply with federal regulations limiting transaction amounts and to report any suspicious activities.

The guidelines, he emphasized, are critical in preventing criminals from exploiting financial services to launder money or collect ransoms.

Authorities are calling for increased vigilance among operators to avoid legal repercussions, reminding them of the severe consequences of non-compliance.