Police have arrested five more suspects who were complicit in the operation of an unregistered educational institute in Bambalapitiya.

The arrestees, aged 23, 25, and 26 years, are reportedly residents of Puwakpitiya, Pallewela, Dematagoda, Polonnaruwa and Mathugama.

After being produced before the Aluthkade Court No.3 earlier today, the suspects have been released on surety bails each valued at Rs. 100,000.

The institute in question which goes by the name “Evolve College of Education” was located on the Lauries Road in Bambalapitiya and had advertised on social media platforms that it provides educational qualifications such as diplomas and higher diplomas required for local and foreign employment.

Meanwhile, a 23-year-old woman from Narangamuwa in Giriulla, who acted as the director of the said fake educational institute, was also arrested and later released on a surety bail of Rs. 500,000 on the orders of Aluthkade Court No.3.

The fake institute had also issued fake diploma certificates after providing academic services without legal approval.

Further, it has been in operation without meeting either local or international standards and has charged sums of money ranging between Rs. 100,000 and Rs. 445,000 from each student, depending on the type of course.

The police said they have received 43 complaints in total related to this higher education scam.

Investigations also revealed that the institute in question had not obtained the approval of the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission either.

At least 1,000 individuals countrywide have reportedly fallen victim to this fraudulent activity.