JAMB: Nigeria Police bust sophisticated UTME exam malpractice syndicate
Nigerian Police Disrupt Examination Fraud Syndicate During 2026 UTME
The Nigeria Police Force, in partnership with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has announced the disruption of a sophisticated examination malpractice syndicate during the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) held at the College of Education in Warri, Delta State.
Authorities reported that the operation stemmed from intelligence-led investigations aimed at countering attempts by criminal elements to undermine the integrity of the examination using technology-assisted methods and unauthorized remote access to examination systems.
At a press conference on Friday, Police Public Relations Officer DCP Anthony Okon Placid stated that preliminary investigations indicated unauthorized access to candidates’ computer systems occurred while the examination was ongoing.
The police conducted coordinated operations based on credible intelligence and digital forensic evidence, resulting in the arrest of three individuals reportedly connected to the criminal activities. These suspects are currently in custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations.
Further inquiries have revealed the involvement of other examination centers suspected of participating in similar illegal practices. In response, JAMB has implemented administrative measures, including the withdrawal of results from the impacted centers until investigations are complete. Candidates affected by this situation will be rescheduled for a mop-up examination in accordance with established procedures.
The Nigeria Police Force has issued a warning to candidates, examination center operators, and potential collaborators to refrain from engaging in any form of examination malpractice or cyber-assisted fraud. The police reiterated their commitment to dismantling and prosecuting criminal networks that threaten the credibility of Nigeria’s educational system.
