Police have been conducting an enquiry into the availability of forged tertiary documentation in Auckland. The documents include forged degrees, diplomas, academic records and other supporting documentation. Investigations culminated in the arrest of three Chinese nationals - a female aged 27 years, and two males aged 26 and 27 years of age. They were arrested on 4th November 2009. They are appearing in the Manukau District Court on 19th November 2009 charged with forgery.
Police believe that the production of false academic documentation may have been occurring over a period of 2 to 3 years with in excess of 100 such sets of documents produced.
Documents seized by Police all contain Chinese named recipients of 'qualifications'. The false documents represent that the recipient has completed the prerequisite course of study at various New Zealand universities.
Detective Inspector Stu Allsopp-Smith stated that the investigation had uncovered a market for forged academic qualifications. Whilst the production of these documents had been professional, Police were satisfied that there was no evidence that those responsible had been able to compromise University academic registries where records of all academic achievement can readily be validated.
The use and production of such documents is not new in New Zealand nor internationally, but the risks of buying and using such documents can have long lasting effects on those who commit criminal offences by obtaining them.
Police encourage those having obtained such document to surrender them to their nearest Police Station. If there is a desire to check the validity of any degree or diploma, the issuing University Registry is able to perform this service.
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