The Nigeria Police Force has arrested three individuals involved in the proliferation of fake websites, falsification of JAMB admission letters, system interference, and operating phishing websites to defraud unsuspecting JAMB candidates.
The arrests were confirmed by the spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi. The suspects, identified as Effa Leonard Mpama (34), Ibang Ernest Jerome (38), and Eshiet Odotukana Benson (38), along with others still at large, are part of a syndicate involved in manipulating the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board’s (JAMB) Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) and e-facility platforms.
The Modus Operandi
According to ACP Adejobi, the syndicate illegally accessed restricted JAMB systems, altered and deleted legitimate admission records, and replaced them with fake details. These fraudulent admission letters were then presented as genuine documents for securing admissions into tertiary institutions and mobilization for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program.
During investigations, the suspects revealed their roles in the conspiracy:
- Effa Leonard Mpama and Ibang Ernest Jerome: Collected personal details of unsuspecting candidates and forwarded them to their accomplice.
- Eshiet Odotukana Benson: Accessed CAPS links obtained from Daniel and Chris, two accomplices still at large, who worked in JAMB CBT centers located in FAN and UNICAL, Calabar.
Forensic Analysis and Discovery
A digital forensic investigation uncovered 4 fake domains and phishing websites operated by the syndicate. Two principal threat actors were also identified in Imo State, responsible for creating these fake domains and other associated fraudulent platforms.
Eshiet, with privileged access to CAPS, would log into the JAMB e-facility using candidate credentials, alter existing admission details, and generate falsified admission letters. These manipulated documents were then used fraudulently to secure admissions and NYSC mobilizations.
Legal Implications
ACP Adejobi emphasized that the offences violate Sections 8, 13, and 27 of the Cybercrimes Act, 2015 (as amended). These offences carry severe legal consequences, and the suspects will face charges in court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Police Commitment to Cybersecurity
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Center, led by CP Uche Ifeanyi Henry, for their diligent work in uncovering and dismantling this syndicate. He reiterated the Force’s commitment to leveraging emerging technological advancements to safeguard Nigerian citizens in both physical and digital spaces.
Warning to the Public
ACP Adejobi issued a strong warning against engaging in criminal partnerships and illicit activities aimed at compromising critical systems like JAMB CAPS. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
The suspects remain in custody and will be charged in court following the conclusion of the investigation.
This arrest underscores the Nigeria Police Force’s determination to ensure the integrity of national examination processes and protect candidates from fraudulent activities.