The Delta police command has warned Point of Sale (POS) operators on the risks associated with processing large transactions that could be linked to criminal activities, particularly kidnappings.
This followed the arrest of a POS operator who allegedly received ₦4,000,000 on behalf of kidnappers.
The police command in a statement by its image maker, Bright Edafe, a Superintendent, stressed the dangers of handling transactions exceeding ₦500,000.
According to him, POS operators could unknowingly become accomplices in ransom collection, jeopardising both their business and personal freedom.
Part of the statement reads, “My message to POS operators is clear: any transaction above ₦500,000 can get you into serious trouble. Don’t be a tool for kidnappers to collect ransom, as such transactions must be traced back to you.”
Edafe pointed at a recent case in which the arrested operator facilitated the transfer of ₦4 million to kidnappers, earning ₦40,000 as her commission.
It added: “She received ₦4,000,000 from kidnappers, and her profit was just ₦40,000. Can you imagine? Be wise. You may argue that you are just doing business, but before your lawyer gets you out, you may spend some time cooling off in prison.”
He urged POS operators to exercise caution and diligence when handling large sums, warning that failing to do so could lead to serious legal repercussions.
The latest arrest highlights growing concerns over the role of POS operators in facilitating ransom payments for kidnappings.
