The Nigeria Police Force and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) have uncovered a sophisticated examination malpractice syndicate during the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Delta State.

The operation, carried out at the College of Education, Warri, followed intelligence-led investigations into attempts to compromise the integrity of the examination through technology-assisted fraud and unauthorized remote access to examination systems.

According to the Police, preliminary findings revealed that unauthorized remote access was illegally gained into candidates’ computer systems while the examination was ongoing.

Acting on credible intelligence and digital forensic evidence, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force conducted coordinated operations which led to the arrest of three suspects allegedly linked to the criminal activity. The suspects are currently in police custody and assisting investigators.

Further investigations, according to the authorities, uncovered the involvement of additional examination centres suspected of engaging in similar illegal practices.

As part of immediate administrative measures, JAMB has withdrawn results from affected centres pending the conclusion of investigations. Candidates affected by the development are expected to be rescheduled for the mop-up examination in line with the board’s procedures.

The Police warned candidates, examination centre operators and other collaborators against engaging in examination malpractice, cyber-assisted fraud and unauthorized system intrusion.

The Force also reaffirmed its commitment to identifying, dismantling and prosecuting criminal networks seeking to undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s educational system.

The statement was signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, on Thursday in Abuja.