By Mick Oseji, Asaba
The Nigeria Police Force and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) have uncovered a sophisticated examination malpractice syndicate during the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Delta State.
The illegal operation was exposed at the College of Education CBT centre in Warri after intelligence reports revealed attempts to compromise the computer-based examination through advanced technological manipulation.
Investigators discovered that unidentified operators allegedly gained unauthorised remote access to candidates’ computer systems while the examination was in progress.
Security operatives said digital forensic investigations and intelligence gathering led to a coordinated raid that resulted in the arrest of three suspects believed to be directly linked to the cyber fraud network
. The suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting investigators as authorities work to unravel the full scope of the operation.
According to the police, the crackdown followed intelligence-led investigations into efforts by criminal elements to undermine the credibility of the UTME through technology-assisted malpractice and illegal remote system access.
Authorities also disclosed that additional examination centres have been linked to similar activities, raising fresh concerns over the growing sophistication of examination fraud syndicates across the country.
As part of immediate measures, JAMB announced the withdrawal of results from centres affected by the ongoing investigation. Candidates impacted by the development are expected to be rescheduled for a mop-up examination after the review process is completed.
The board said the decision was necessary to preserve the integrity and fairness of the examination nationwide.
The police warned candidates, CBT operators, and cyber fraudsters to stay away from activities capable of sabotaging Nigeria’s educational system, stressing that security agencies remain committed to dismantling criminal networks involved in examination malpractice.
Meanwhile, JAMB also confirmed the re-arrest of a suspected examination fraudster, Emmanuel Akataka, accused of running illegal score manipulation schemes for UTME candidates.
Investigators said Akataka, who allegedly operated online under the fake identity “Official Frederick,” returned to fraudulent activities shortly after being granted bail.
