Cops warn of scammers selling fake College entries

Mpumalanga police are sounding the alarm about fraudsters capitalizing on students
desperate for university admission. Police Commissioner Lt. Gen. Semakaleng
Manamela cautioned the public as the academic year begins.

“Prospective students and parents are vulnerable, accepting dubious offers from
conniving scammers promising to fulfil education dreams,” Manamela said.

She explained fraudsters often impersonate university employees or claim connections
to higher-ups. They gain trust and then solicit bribes from victims in exchange for
fabricated admission letters and housing.

Manamela warned parents not to wire money to personal accounts or money markets.
“Make background checks on institutions first, as some are nonexistent,” she urged.

Authorities say clever scammers sound convincing with fake credentials and emotional
pitches about helping students succeed. But their only motive is exploiting people’s
eagerness to further education.

Manamela advised scrutinizing any admission correspondence received and directly
contacting universities with concerns before sending payments. Victims often realize too
late it was an expensive scam.

“Avoid shortcuts and verify authenticity first. Don’t let scammers steal your hard-earned
money and your child’s future,” Manamela emphasized.

Cadets are also cautioned against offers for police and military training programs that
require upfront fees. All legitimate academies handle costs directly.

Manamela pledged officers will work diligently to arrest scam artists attempting to profit
off students through deception and false hope. However public awareness is key to
stopping the fraudsters before money is lost.