The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) says it has uncovered and disrupted a technology-driven examination malpractice network during the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Delta State.
According to a statement issued on Friday by Force Public Relations Officer Anthony Placid, the operation was carried out in collaboration with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) at the College of Education, Warri.
“The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has uncovered and disrupted a sophisticated examination malpractice syndicate during the conduct of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) at the College of Education, Warri, Delta state,” the statement reads.
The police said intelligence reports had revealed plans by criminal groups to interfere with the examination using digital methods.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that during the examination, unauthorized remote access was illegally gained into candidates’ computer systems while the exercise was ongoing.”
Placid confirmed that three suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident and are currently assisting investigators.
“The coordinated operation led to the arrest of three suspects directly linked to the criminal activity,” he said, adding that further investigations are ongoing.
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He also disclosed that more examination centres may be implicated, as investigations continue to uncover additional links.
“Investigations have also uncovered the involvement of additional examination centres suspected to have engaged in similar illegal activities,” the statement added.
Following the development, JAMB has reportedly withdrawn results from affected centres pending the outcome of investigations.
“Consequently, JAMB has taken administrative measures, including the withdrawal of results from affected centres pending the conclusion of investigations.”
The board also stated that affected candidates would be rescheduled for a mop-up examination.
The police warned candidates and examination officials against any form of malpractice or cyber-related cheating, stressing that offenders will be prosecuted.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to identifying, dismantling, and prosecuting criminal networks seeking to undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s educational system,” Placid added.