Surge in Fake Certificates Prompts Police Crackdown

The Maldives Police Service has issued a sharp warning after detecting a rise in the use of fake certificates by job-seekers and students. Authorities say the trend is eroding trust in public services and the education system.

In a statement published Sunday, the Police confirmed that their Fraud and Financial Investigation Department—working in coordination with the Maldives Qualifications Authority (MQA) and other government bodies—is actively probing multiple cases. At the conclusion of investigations, offenders will face prosecution.

The Police emphasized that forging, altering, or falsely presenting documents is a criminal offense. Individuals found guilty will be held legally accountable.

Authorities also urged employers and educational institutions to be vigilant. They recommended strict adherence to the national qualification framework and encouraged institutions to report any documents whose authenticity is uncertain.

This public warning comes in the wake of a high-profile forgery case. The Bar Council of the Maldives recently filed a complaint with the Police after uncovering a fake lawyer’s license bearing a counterfeit signature from former Supreme Court Justice Abdullah Areef.