The Nigeria Police Force, working in collaboration with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, has uncovered and disrupted a coordinated examination malpractice network during the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted at the College of Education, Warri in Delta State.
According to a statement by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, the operation was triggered by intelligence reports indicating attempts by criminal actors to compromise the integrity of the examination using technology-driven fraud and unauthorized remote access to candidates’ systems.
Preliminary findings revealed that intruders gained illegal remote access to computer systems being used for the examination while the exercise was ongoing, enabling coordinated malpractice activities.
Acting on digital forensic intelligence, police operatives launched a coordinated raid that led to the arrest of three suspects allegedly linked to the fraud network. The suspects are currently in custody and assisting ongoing investigations.
Authorities also disclosed that additional examination centres may have been compromised, as investigations continue to uncover wider involvement in similar activities.
As a result, JAMB has implemented administrative sanctions, including the withdrawal of results from affected centres. Affected candidates will be rescheduled to participate in a mop-up examination in line with standard procedures.
The Police warned candidates, examination officials, and collaborators to desist from any form of examination fraud or cyber-enabled malpractice, stressing that efforts to undermine the education system will be met with strict enforcement.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling criminal networks targeting national examinations and ensuring the credibility of Nigeria’s education assessment system.
