The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), have successfully uncovered and disrupted a sophisticated examination malpractice syndicate operating during the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The operation took place at the College of Education in Warri, Delta State, following an intelligence-led investigation into attempts by criminal elements to compromise the integrity of the national examination through technology-assisted fraud and unauthorized remote access.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the syndicate illegally gained remote access to candidates’ computer systems while the examination was in progress.
Utilizing credible intelligence and digital forensic leads, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force conducted a coordinated raid that resulted in the arrest of four suspects directly linked to the illicit activity.
The suspects are currently in police custody and are cooperating with ongoing investigations.
Further inquiries have uncovered the involvement of additional examination centers suspected of engaging in similar fraudulent practices.
In response, JAMB has implemented immediate administrative measures, including the withdrawal of results from the affected centers pending the final outcome of the investigation.
Candidates impacted by this development will be rescheduled for a mop-up examination in accordance with established board procedures.
The Nigeria Police Force in a statement issued a warning to the candidates, examination center operators, and potential collaborators to desist from any form of malpractice, cyber-assisted fraud, or unauthorized system intrusion.
The Force reiterated its committment to identifying, dismantling, and prosecuting any criminal network seeking to undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s educational system.
