The Nigeria Police Force says it has broken up a fraud syndicate that was impersonating Segun Aina, the registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
One suspect, Nwogba Arinze, was arrested in Anambra State. Police are still searching for Nnabuife Nwekpa, who they named as the alleged ringleader.
Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, said the case began after Aina petitioned the police on August 10. The petition alleged criminal conspiracy, impersonation, identity theft and fraud.
Following approval from the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, officers from the Intelligence, Operations and Investigation unit at JAMB headquarters traced the network. Early leads pointed to Nasarawa and Katsina states, but investigators later found that people tracked there were victims, not members of the syndicate.
According to Iniedu, the group created fake social media accounts in Aina’s name and used them to offer bogus “official JAMB services” to the public in exchange for money.
By analysing phone numbers and bank details linked to the scheme, operatives traced activity back to Anambra. That is where Arinze was picked up on August 27. Police allege he posed as the registrar’s personal assistant.
Investigators also said Arinze used the bank account and debit cards of his late nephew, Edeh Chimezie Benedict, to hide his tracks. He had been given access to the account to help with funeral arrangements held on July 31, 2026.
The police said Arinze is cooperating with investigators as they work to arrest Nwekpa and other suspected members of the syndicate.
JAMB has repeatedly warned candidates and parents to be wary of fraudsters posing as officials online and to only use the board’s verified channels.
