The Nigeria Police Force, working alongside the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has dismantled a sophisticated, technology-driven examination fraud syndicate during the 2026 UTME in Delta State.
The operation followed intelligence reports on attempts by criminal groups to undermine the integrity of the exam using tech-based fraud and illegal remote access to examination systems.
According to a statement released on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, the incident took place at the College of Education Warri CBT centre during the ongoing examination.
Preliminary findings showed that unauthorised remote access was gained into candidates’ computer systems while the exam was in progress.
“The operation followed intelligence-led investigations into attempts by criminal elements to compromise the integrity of the examination through technology-assisted fraud and unauthorised remote access to examination systems,” the statement read.
Police operatives, acting on credible intelligence and digital forensic evidence, arrested three suspects believed to be part of the syndicate.
“Acting on credible intelligence and digital forensic leads, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force carried out coordinated operations which led to the arrest of three suspects directly linked to the criminal activity,” the statement added.
The suspects are currently in custody and are assisting investigators as inquiries continue into the wider network.
“The suspects are currently in Police custody assisting ongoing investigations,” the statement said.
Investigations have also reportedly revealed that other CBT centres may have been involved in similar activities.
“Investigations have also uncovered the involvement of additional examination centres suspected to have engaged in similar illegal activities,” the police noted.
Following the development, JAMB cancelled results from the affected centres pending further investigation.
“Consequently, JAMB has taken administrative measures, including the withdrawal of results from affected centres pending the conclusion of investigations,” the statement added.
The board also confirmed that affected candidates will be given another opportunity to sit for the exam.
“Candidates affected by the development will be rescheduled for the mop-up examination in line with established procedures,” the statement said.
The police warned candidates, CBT operators, and accomplices to desist from examination malpractice and cyber-related offences, while reaffirming its commitment to protecting the credibility of Nigeria’s education system.