Detectives from the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) have arrested a university student alleged to be the mastermind behind a sophisticated online syndicate selling counterfeit national examination papers.

The suspect, identified as Chrispinus Nandafu Naisuma, a fourth-year student at Meru University of Science and Technology, was apprehended in Kianjai, Tigania West Sub-County, following a carefully coordinated operation by investigators.

According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Nandafu ran an elaborate online network operating under the banner “The Teacher’s KNEC Exam 2025.”

He used multiple online identities including Dr. Ibrahim, Madam Salim, Chat GPT, and Violent Kathini Mwendwa to lure unsuspecting victims into purchasing fake examination papers.

Investigations revealed that the suspect exploited social media and online communication platforms to advertise and sell the bogus papers to candidates and parents seeking unfair academic advantage.

Authorities say his operations extended to several counties, duping hundreds of Kenyans with false promises of leaked KNEC materials.

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Evidence Seized in Crackdown

When detectives raided his hideout, they recovered 29 Airtel SIM cards, six mobile phones, two laptops, and several Safaricom and Telkom SIM cards, among other items believed to have been used in the fraudulent scheme.

The confiscated electronic devices are undergoing forensic analysis as part of efforts to trace other potential members of the syndicate and recover funds obtained through the scam.

Suspect in Custody as Crackdown Intensifies

Nandafu is currently in police custody and is being processed ahead of his arraignment.

The DCI confirmed that the arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the ongoing crackdown on individuals and groups distributing fake KNEC examination materials.

Both KNEC and DCI have intensified surveillance and operations to curb exam-related fraud ahead of the 2025 national examinations.

The agencies have also issued a stern warning to students, parents, and the public against engaging with fraudsters posing as legitimate exam dealers.

“All KNEC examinations are protected by robust security systems and strict integrity protocols,” authorities stated, emphasizing that no genuine exam papers are ever sold or leaked online.

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Public Urged to Report Fraudsters

The DCI has encouraged members of the public to report any suspicious activities involving fake exam materials through the #FichuaKwaDCI initiative by calling 0800 722 203 (Toll-free) or sending a WhatsApp message to 0709 570 000.

“Usiogope!” the agency urged, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the credibility of Kenya’s national examination system.

Chrispinus Nandafu Naisuma, a fourth-year student at Meru University of Science and Technology, alongside his gadgets of conmanship. PHOTO/ DCI X.