Nigeria police crack down on JAMB fraud syndicate, traces activities to mastermind’s late nephew

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence, Operations, and Investigation Unit attached to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) National Headquarters, Abuja, have uncovered a fraud syndicate, leading to the arrest of one suspect while efforts were underway to apprehend the principal culprit.

A press statement by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), CSP Anietie Iniedu, Wednesday in Abuja, noted that the operation originated from a petition submitted on August 10, 2026, by the Registrar of JAMB, Professor Segun Aina, alleging criminal conspiracy, impersonation, identity theft, and fraud.

“Following approval of the Inspector-General of police, Police, operatives launched an immediate investigation that extended to Nasarawa and Katsina states to track down those involved. However, individuals initially tracked in those states were discovered to be victims who had been defrauded by the syndicate while the criminals impersonated the Registrar.

“Investigators revealed that the syndicate created fake social media accounts using the Registrar’s identity to defraud unsuspecting members of the public under the guise of providing official services. “Through intelligence gathering, operatives analysed the phone numbers and bank account details used in the scheme. The track led to Anambra state, where the police arrested one Nwogba Arinze, who had been posing as the Personal Assistant to the Registrar.

“Further investigation revealed that Arinze, who was taken into custody on August 27, 2026, used the bank account of his deceased nephew, Edeh Chimezie Benedict, to conceal his identity and evade detection. “The suspect had been entrusted with the late nephew’s account details and debit cards to assist with funeral arrangements done on July 31, 2026,” the statement read in part.

The spokesperson disclosed that the Police were currently pursuing the fleeing principal suspect, Nnabuife Nwekpa, a close relative of Arinze. Arinze remains in police custody and is cooperating with investigators to assist in apprehending Nwekpa and any other accomplices.

“The NPF advises the general public to remain vigilant and report suspicious online activities immediately to the NPF National CyberCrime Center (NPF-NCCC).

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, psc (+), NPM, reiterates the Force’s commitment to combating crime and upholding public integrity across the nation” he added.