The police arrested three people on Tuesday in an investigation into fraud involving healthcare certificates, a police spokesperson confirmed after reporting by Nieuwsuur. The three are suspected of selling hundreds of forged certificates. They are charged with forgery, participation in a criminal organization, and fraud.
It involves EVC certificates, which commercial agencies issue. EVC is the Dutch acronym for “recognition of acquired competencies.” These certificates, which cost a few thousand euros, make it easier to receive a healthcare diploma by giving you exemptions based on work experience.
According to Nieuwsuur, the suspects sold between 800 and 1,200 forged certificates.
Caretaker Minister Eppo Bruins of Education reported last year that the number of agencies issuing EVC certificates had increased “alarmingly.” He also said that one agency under investigation may have sold 800 to 1,200 forged certificates.
The police have not said whether the three arrested suspects are linked to that agency.