KCSE security has come under fresh scrutiny after detectives arrested a Kibabii University student suspected of helping circulate examination papers as candidates began the main written tests across the country.
John Odhiambo Opiyo was arrested in Bungoma after investigators allegedly traced the sharing of exam material to him. Police also recovered a mobile phone believed to have been used in the suspected scheme.
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KCSE suspect held in Bungoma
Police said Opiyo is being held at Bungoma Police Station as detectives prepare an inventory of the recovered evidence.
Investigators are also following up on separate reports of suspected examination malpractice in Garissa and Wajir.
The cases emerged as candidates sat English and Chemistry papers at the start of the written phase of the national examinations.
More than one million candidates registered
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba said this year’s KCSE candidature has crossed the one-million mark for the first time.
Registrations increased by 5.27 per cent compared with 2025, with examinations being administered in more than 10,000 centers nationwide.
The current candidates form the second-last KCSE cohort under the 8-4-4 education system.
Security measures tightened
Authorities have increased security and transport arrangements in areas facing logistical or safety challenges.
In North Eastern, examination materials are being transported by road where possible, while helicopters are being used in areas affected by insecurity.
Security has also been increased in the Hagadera, Ifo and Dagahaley refugee camps in Dadaab to support uninterrupted examinations.
KCSE candidates relocated in Moyale
Some candidates in Moyale, Marsabit County, have been moved to safer examination centers because of insecurity along the Kenya-Ethiopia border.
Education officials said the relocations were meant to ensure candidates could sit their papers without disruption.
Officials have also warned schools about the possible use of smartwatches and other devices to facilitate cheating.
Hospitals accommodate candidates
In Bomet County, three candidates sat their examinations in hospital.
One of them had delivered a baby on Monday morning before later taking her English paper.
Education officials said arrangements had been made to allow all affected candidates to continue with their examinations.
Authorities say investigations into suspected KCSE malpractice are continuing as the written examination period progresses.
