The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has uncovered and dismantled a sophisticated examination malpractice syndicate during the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) held at the College of Education, Warri, Delta State.
The operation followed intelligence-led investigations into attempts by criminal elements to compromise the integrity of the examination through technology-assisted fraud and unauthorized remote access to examination systems.
According to a statement shared by the force on their official X handle, preliminary findings revealed that unauthorized remote access was illegally gained into candidates’ computer systems while the examination was in progress.
Acting on credible intelligence and digital forensic evidence, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force carried out coordinated operations that led to the arrest of three suspects allegedly linked to the criminal network. The suspects are currently in Police custody and assisting investigators.
Further investigations also uncovered the involvement of other examination centres suspected to have participated in similar illegal activities.
Following the discovery, JAMB announced administrative actions against the affected centres, including the withdrawal of examination results pending the conclusion of investigations.
Candidates impacted by the development are expected to participate in a mop-up examination in line with JAMB’s established procedures.
The Police warned candidates, examination centre operators, and other collaborators against engaging in examination malpractice, cyber-assisted fraud, or unauthorized system intrusion.
The Force reiterated its commitment to identifying, dismantling, and prosecuting criminal networks seeking to undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s educational system.
The statement was signed by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on May 8, 2026.