Kerala Police have uncovered a massive academic fraud operation, arresting 11 individuals and seizing more than 100,000 counterfeit university degrees linked to 22 institutions in a statewide crackdown. The operation exposed a well-organized syndicate engaged in the large-scale production and sale of forged academic credentials.
According to investigators, the fake degrees covered sensitive and high-risk professions, including medicine, nursing, and engineering. Authorities confirmed that many of these forged documents were used to unlawfully secure jobs in both public and private sectors, raising serious concerns about public safety and professional integrity.
Police officials warned that the seized certificates may represent only a fraction of the operation’s reach. Preliminary estimates suggest that more than one million fake degrees could already be in circulation, potentially undermining recruitment systems and regulatory oversight across multiple industries.
The investigation revealed that the syndicate charged between ₹2 lakh and ₹4 lakh per forged certificate, generating substantial illegal profits. Law enforcement agencies believe the racket operated through a wide network of intermediaries, targeting individuals seeking quick employment or career advancement without legitimate qualifications.
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Kerala Police stated that the probe is ongoing and will be expanded to identify additional suspects, financial links, and end-users of the forged degrees. Authorities have pledged strict action against all those involved, emphasizing that the crackdown aims to restore trust in academic and professional credentialing systems.
