Lebanese authorities have launched a major investigation into a diploma forgery scandal at Lebanese University, resulting in charges against faculty members, employees, students, and a journalist, according to official statements and media reports.

Kataeb Party leader Samy Gemayel described the case as more than just a legal matter, calling it “a warning sign that threatens one of Lebanon’s leading institutions of higher education.”

“Forgery of diplomas is a serious crime that undermines equal opportunity for students and tarnishes the university’s reputation and standing," Gemayel wrote on X. "I commend the judiciary for acting quickly and following up diligently on this case." 

On Thursday, the public prosecutor charged the former director of the university’s first branch of the Faculty of Law (M.M.), the branch secretary (T.B.), and several other staff and participants with a range of offenses, including forging official documents, using forged materials, breaching official duties, professional negligence, obstructing investigations, destroying or concealing official records, and falsifying university exam results.

The charges cite multiple articles of the Lebanese Penal Code, including provisions on violations of public service duties and the Lebanese University Law.

Investigations by the State Security apparatus, under the guidance of the Mount Lebanon Court of Appeal, revealed evidence of tampered exam results, forged answer sheets, and manipulated grading. Several suspects have been detained and referred to the judiciary.

Lebanese broadcaster Al-Jadeed reported that 15 individuals have been charged in connection with the scandal, including the dean of the faculty, its secretary, students, staff members, and journalist Fadi Abu Dia.