Admins of Telegram Channels Arrested Over Exam Malpractice
Six administrators of Telegram groups have been apprehended by the police on suspicion of their involvement in the ongoing malpractices associated with the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Examination. The police initiated a multi-agency operation, collaborating with telecom service providers, CAK officers, and DCI personnel linked to the Kenya National Examinations Council.
Contrary to the KNEC Act and regulations, the KNEC monitoring team discovered that more than thirty-two social media platforms were being used to distribute, promote, and upload examination materials. In October, Kenya’s Communications Authority identified thirty-two of the thirty active suspect Telegram platforms, with over 193,000 parents and pupils as members.
However, when the initial suspect, Mr. Examiner, was arrested, over 60,000 members from various groups departed, leaving around 130,000 individuals actively involved. Mr. Examiner worked as a CRE instructor at a private school in Kiambu County.
Admins of Telegram Channels Arrested Over Exam Malpractice
By November 4, six more administrators were implicated in the fraudulent activities related to the sharing, selling, and uploading of exam materials in different Telegram channels, according to the police. Among these administrators, one of the most notorious was a suspect known as Professor, who managed a Telegram group called “Teacher’s Updates” with almost 18,000 followers.
Also Read:Â Reasons why KCSE Papers Are Picked Twice Daily From A Container
He encouraged educators, parents, and students in his group, stating, “calm down; we’re here to support you in every way.” Additionally, the police detained two Thika Medical School students aged 19 and 20, and a 20-year-old administrator who sought customer service assistance at a Safaricom store after her Telegram account’s suspension.
The six individuals were charged with multiple offenses, including publishing false information, when they were brought before the court. The DCI emphasized that engaging in fraudulent practices is not a legitimate path to success and cautioned against such behavior.
