Steephan Kayyar

Daijiworld Media Network – Kasargod

Kasargod, May 14: In a major breakthrough, Hosdurg police have arrested three individuals involved in a widespread fake certificate racket centered around a private firm in Kanhangad. The arrested include the firm’s owner Santosh Kumar (45) from Kovalpalli, P Ravindran (51) of Moukod, Cheruvathur, and Shihab (34) from Hosdurg Beach.

The illegal operation was reportedly being run from a centre named ‘Net For You’, located behind the Pudyakote bus stand in Kanhangad. According to police sources, the trio were producing counterfeit educational certificates, identity documents, and official seals with the help of advanced computer systems and tools.

A police raid at the office led to the seizure of multiple computers, hard disks, fake documents, and equipment used for producing forgeries. Further searches at Shihab's residence uncovered additional forged materials. Ravindran’s house was also inspected for evidence.

The gang is suspected of forging a range of official documents including:

• Degree certificates from various universities in the state

• SSLC mark sheets and certificates

• Driving licenses

• Passports

Police officials stated that “a large-scale forgery operation was being carried out, creating fake documents for various purposes.” The investigation is still ongoing, and authorities suspect more individuals may be involved in the racket.

This incident has raised serious concerns about the integrity of academic and government-issued documents, and the potential impact such fake credentials could have on employment and national security. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.