The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), in collaboration with Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) and local officers in Masaba North, has arrested Stephen Nyang’au Mbeche, the administrator of the “KCSE 2024 Leakage Group” on Telegram, after an extensive surveillance operation.
Mbeche, a notorious figure in exam fraud, was found with a mobile phone and laptop allegedly used to exploit students and parents seeking leaked exam content. Following the arrest, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling exam malpractice on an individual basis, rather than penalizing entire exam centres. He emphasized that this year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams are being closely monitored, with strict guidelines for candidates and staff, including the secure storage of mobile phones under police supervision.
Ogamba highlighted recent arrests in Homa Bay County, where eight teachers were detained for photocopying exam papers. The offenders, including the centre manager and invigilators, are now in custody, awaiting prosecution. He warned that any evidence of coordinated cheating would result in severe consequences.
The Education CS also pointed to the use of serialized exam papers, a security measure enabling authorities to track students involved in malpractice. Ogamba urged everyone to adhere to exam regulations and noted that recent cases involved exam fraud through social media platforms like Instagram. With KCSE exams now in their fourth week, vigilance remains high to protect the integrity of Kenya’s education system.
