A former teacher has been arrested in Northdale, Pietermaritzburg, for allegedly running a fraudulent school and charging adults admission and examination fees under false pretences.
Mi7 National Group director Colin David said the man lured adults into attending his unregistered school by promising them a chance to obtain their matric qualifications.
He converted a room in a residential home on Innes Avenue into a classroom, fitting it with desks and a whiteboard.
Pupils Sat Fake Exams, Unaware of Matric Scam
Police and education officials raided the property and found a group of adults writing matric exams.
The group, aged between 23 and 50, had no idea the papers were fake.
Authorities later confirmed the exam papers were fake and not recognised by any official body.
“The suspect, believed to be a former teacher, had up to three dozen pupils who paid him admission and exam fees,” David said.
Forged documents and fake admissions uncovered
Police recovered over 100 completed fake exam papers during the raid.
They also found forged admission letters with false details and signatures, along with a receipt book showing payments from students.
Officials also found other fraudulent documents at the scene.
Suspect faces multiple charges
Authorities arrested the man on charges of fraud, forgery, uttering, and theft by false pretences.
“We commend the extensive effort by all role players which led to the arrest,” said David.
The KwaZulu-Natal education department, police intelligence from the uMgungundlovu district, and officers from Mountain Rise police station jointly carried out the operation. Investigations are continuing.
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