Headmaster Benjamin Manirambona, from the Buterere Technical College in northern Bujumbura, was working on his last paper when the police together with education authorities stormed the examination hall and confronted him.

With nowhere to run, Mr Manirambona pleaded guilty on the spot and admitted he was taking the exam on behalf of a soldier who was deployed in Somalia, promising him a payment once he gets back.

He was arrested together with other students also suspected of cheating after a tip off was given to the police.He is still being held in custody.