Operatives Trace Fake Registrar Accounts to Anambra, Hunt Alleged Principal Suspect
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence, Operations and Investigation Unit attached to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) have uncovered a fraud syndicate allegedly impersonating the board’s Registrar.
One suspect, Nwogba Arinze, has been arrested, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the alleged principal suspect, Nnabuife Nwekpa.
Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, saying the investigation followed a petition filed by JAMB Registrar, Prof. Segun Aina, on August 10, 2026.
The petition alleged criminal conspiracy, impersonation, identity theft and fraud. Following approval from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, investigators extended the operation to Nasarawa and Katsina states.
The police said individuals initially traced in the two states were found to be victims who had allegedly been defrauded by the syndicate.
Investigators subsequently discovered that the suspects created fake social media accounts using the Registrar’s identity to allegedly defraud members of the public under the guise of offering official JAMB services.
Intelligence from phone numbers and bank accounts allegedly used in the scheme led investigators to Anambra State, where Arinze was arrested on August 27.
The police said Arinze allegedly posed as the Registrar’s personal assistant and used the bank account and debit cards of his deceased nephew, Edeh Chimezie Benedict, to conceal his identity.
According to the police, Arinze had access to the account details while assisting with funeral arrangements for his late nephew, whose burial took place on July 31.
The police identified Nwekpa, described as a close relative of Arinze, as the alleged principal suspect and said efforts were ongoing to arrest him and other possible accomplices.
The Force advised members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious online activities to the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre.
The IGP reiterated the police commitment to combating cyber-related fraud and protecting public integrity across the country.