2026 UTME: Police Arrest 4 Suspects Involved In High-Tech Exam Fraud

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), in collaboration with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has uncovered and dismantled a sophisticated examination malpractice syndicate and arrested four suspects during the recent 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) at the College of Education Warri, Delta State.

Parading the suspects in Abuja, the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), DCP Anthony Placid, said 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 him, 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 Force PRO said.

He further added 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As part of immediate administrative actions, JAMB has reportedly withdrawn results from affected centres pending the conclusion of investigations.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.