The Nigeria Police Force in Delta State has ordered disciplinary proceedings against two officers accused of extorting money from a motorist using a point-of-sale (POS) machine inside a police station, after a viral video sparked public outrage.
The incident occurred on January 13 at the ‘C’ Division in Asaba, where the officers allegedly compelled the motorist to transfer N51,500 via a Moniepoint POS terminal within the station premises. Footage circulating online showed a uniformed officer standing beside the victim as the transaction was processed, in what authorities described as clear misconduct.
Delta State Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, ordered immediate orderly room proceedings against Inspector Augustine Jeremiah and Corporal Miracle Ehirim, the command said.
“The behaviour captured in the video is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Oyeniyi said, adding that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public to ensure transparency and serve as a deterrent.
The police reiterated that the use of POS machines and other electronic payment platforms within police formations remains strictly prohibited. Authorities said the ban is aimed at eliminating extortion and unauthorised financial transactions involving officers.
“No officer is authorised to demand or receive money from members of the public under any pretext,” the command said, stressing that such actions violate established rules and professional standards.
At the national level, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, Inspector-General of Police, has maintained a zero-tolerance stance on misconduct, including extortion, illegal checkpoints, and harassment of citizens.
In recent directives to police commands nationwide, the IGP ordered an immediate halt to routine demands for cash or electronic transfers from motorists and warned against forcing individuals to withdraw money through ATMs or POS devices.
Oyeniyi said he had reiterated the directive during a strategic meeting with senior officers in the state, warning that any personnel found engaging in such practices would face strict disciplinary action.
The Delta command also commended members of the public who recorded and shared the video, noting that citizen vigilance plays a key role in promoting accountability within law enforcement.
“This case highlights the importance of public cooperation in exposing misconduct and strengthening trust between the police and the communities they serve,” the command said.
The police said mechanisms have been put in place to encourage citizens to report misconduct through complaint response units and dedicated communication channels.
The Delta State Police Command said it remains committed to upholding the law and ensuring that any officer found guilty of extortion faces appropriate sanctions, including dismissal or prosecution where necessary.
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