Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have apprehended the director of a college in Eldoret following allegations of issuing a forged diploma certificate. The arrest came after a complaint from the Public Service Commission (PSC) during a routine academic and professional certificate authentication exercise.
Investigations revealed that the college director falsely claimed affiliation with a university, which led a student to enrol for a Diploma in Business Management under the impression that the qualification was legitimate. Upon completing the course, the student received a diploma certificate, which he later used to secure employment.
However, the certificate was flagged as forged during the PSC's verification process, resulting in the graduate losing his job despite believing he had earned a valid qualification from a recognized institution.
The DCI completed investigations and forwarded the case to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), which approved charges against the suspect. The director faces allegations including making a false document, contrary to relevant sections of the Penal Code.
The suspect was arrested in Eldoret town and is currently undergoing processing ahead of court arraignment.
Authorities Warn Public on Certificate Fraud
- The DCI cautioned the public to verify claims of institutional affiliations before enrolling in colleges.
- Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected academic certificate fraud to authorities.
- Fake and forged academic certificates remain a significant challenge in Kenya, affecting employment and public trust.
- Employers have intensified verification efforts to uphold merit and fairness in recruitment and promotions.
Certificate fraud undermines qualified candidates and compromises the integrity of Kenya's education and employment sectors. Those found guilty risk criminal prosecution and job loss.
