From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State Police Command, has raised fresh concerns over an increase in sophisticated fraud targeting Point-of-Sale (POS) operators across the state, cautioning agents to remain vigilant.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Command disclosed that intelligence reports point to criminal syndicates, some operating outside Kwara, who are exploiting unsuspecting POS operators to carry out illegal financial transactions involving huge sums of money.
According to the police, the fraudsters typically approach POS agents with requests to process transfers running into millions of naira, often enticing them with small commissions or service fees.
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“These transactions may appear legitimate on the surface, but they are actually linked to broader criminal operations,” the statement said, adding that many operators unknowingly get drawn into unlawful financial activities.
The Command further revealed that several affected POS operators have later been arrested or invited for questioning by security agencies from other states, who demand explanations regarding the source or destination of the suspicious funds.
“In many instances, the individuals behind the transactions cannot be traced, leaving the POS operators to face the legal consequences,” the police noted.
Reacting to the trend, the Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, CP Ojo Adekimi, urged POS operators to exercise caution, especially when dealing with unfamiliar customers or handling unusually large transactions.
He advised operators to report any transaction involving significant amounts to the nearest police station or appropriate security agency before proceeding.
“This will enable proper verification of the funds and protect innocent operators from being used as channels for financial crimes,” he said.
The Command also reassured residents and stakeholders in the financial sector of its commitment to working collaboratively to combat fraud and ensure the safety and integrity of financial transactions across Kwara State.
