The police in the Indian state of Kerala have busted a major network of forged university certificates operating across the country. The network produced fake certificates from both Indian and foreign universities, with a total of nearly a million forgeries. Authorities arrested 11 individuals linked to this ring, including those responsible for printing, forgery, and distribution. The forged certificates bore the names of real universities, along with counterfeit seals and signatures. According to local media, the police seized hundreds of printers, computers, and fake seals, and recovered approximately 100,000 forged certificates attributed to 22 universities outside Kerala. The price for the fake certificates ranged from $3,000 to $6,000 and they were distributed by the gang's agents in various Indian states. Authorities are investigating to determine if university officials were involved and are tracking individuals who obtained these certificates to see if they were used to secure jobs or other benefits. The mastermind of the network, known as 'Danny', is Danish Dharman. He had previously been investigated in 2013 for similar crimes. After being released from prison, he re-established the operation from a rented house in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, enlisting experienced printers, including individuals from Sivakasi, to manufacture the forged certificates. The network's leader invested the proceeds from the operation in real estate and businesses both within and outside India. He was arrested while attempting to flee the country with his family.
