At least 74 people have been arrested over suspected examination malpractice during the recently concluded 2026 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), with 11 already appearing in court, the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has revealed.

UNEB says no convictions had been secured by the time of the announcement, while investigations into the remaining cases are still ongoing.

The arrests come as the examinations body tightens security ahead of the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations, which commenced on Monday, November 9, 2026.

Addressing journalists at Police Headquarters in Naguru, UNEB spokesperson Jennifer Kalule-Musamba warned individuals involved in examination malpractice that they risk severe penalties under the UNEB Act, Cap 259.

She specifically cautioned teachers and other individuals who facilitate candidates to illegally access examination papers, noting that upon conviction, offenders face fines of up to Shs40 million, imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.

Kalule-Musamba also pointed to Section 26 of the Act, which provides for penalties against invigilators and examination scouts who negligently allow malpractice under their supervision. Such officers risk fines of up to Shs20 million or imprisonment for up to five years.

She further warned candidates against falling victim to social media groups demanding money in exchange for purported access to UNEB examination papers, describing such offers as scams.

According to Kalule-Musamba, no individual can legitimately obtain examination papers ahead of candidates before the officially scheduled examination time.

Meanwhile, UNEB has deployed more than 1,000 scouts, alongside security and surveillance personnel across the country, to strengthen monitoring and safeguard the ongoing UACE examinations.

The Board has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the integrity, security and credibility of national examinations.

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