By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, has uncovered and dismantled a sophisticated examination malpractice syndicate during the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination at the College of Education Warri, Delta State.
In an official signed statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, the Police disclosed that the operation followed intelligence-led investigations into attempts by criminal elements to compromise the integrity of the examination through technology-driven fraud and unauthorised remote access to examination systems.
According to the statement, preliminary investigations revealed that during the examination, unauthorised remote access was illegally gained into candidates’ computer systems while the exercise was in progress.
Acting on credible intelligence and digital forensic evidence, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force carried out coordinated operations which led to the arrest of three suspects allegedly linked to the criminal network. The suspects are currently in police custody and assisting investigators.
The Police further disclosed that ongoing investigations have uncovered the involvement of additional examination centres suspected to have participated in similar illegal activities.
As part of immediate administrative actions, JAMB has reportedly withdrawn results from affected centres pending the conclusion of investigations. Candidates impacted by the development are expected to be rescheduled for mop-up examinations in accordance with established procedures.
The Force warned candidates, examination centre operators, and other collaborators against engaging in examination malpractice, cyber-enabled fraud, or unauthorised access to examination systems.
The Police reiterated its commitment to identifying, dismantling, and prosecuting criminal networks attempting to undermine the credibility and integrity of Nigeria’s educational system.
