By Enakaye Peculiar
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has re-arrested a suspected fraudster linked to an online scam that targeted over 100 candidates preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The development highlights ongoing efforts by the board to clamp down on examination malpractice and protect candidates from exploitation.
The suspect, Emmanuel Akataka, was reportedly picked up again after returning to fraudulent activities following an earlier arrest. He is accused of operating an online scheme that falsely promised candidates assistance in boosting their examination scores, luring them into paying for services that do not exist.
According to JAMB, no fewer than 131 candidates were affected by the scam, with each victim allegedly paying between ₦5,000 and ₦8,000. While the suspect claimed to have earned a smaller sum, the board believes the total amount collected could be significantly higher, raising concerns about the scale of the operation.
Further findings revealed that the suspect used multiple identities and social media platforms to reach unsuspecting candidates. Authorities also noted that digital tools were employed to make the scheme appear credible, thereby increasing its success rate among desperate applicants seeking admission.
JAMB has strongly condemned the incident and warned candidates to steer clear of individuals or platforms promising score upgrades or special assistance. The board emphasized that the UTME process is strictly merit-based and cannot be manipulated, urging candidates to rely only on legitimate preparation methods.
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