The investigation into a major academic forgery scandal at the Lebanese University’s Faculty of Law, Branch I, has gathered pace, with security agencies uncovering what officials described as a far-reaching case of bribery and political manipulation extending well beyond the three Kuwaiti students initially rumored to be involved.

According to information obtained by Nidaa Al-Watan, investigators have identified two Lebanese nationals who allegedly paid bribes to falsify their exam results in order to obtain law degrees; qualifications they reportedly intended to use for political purposes ahead of the next parliamentary elections.

One of the main suspects is Fadi Abou Diya, a media figure known for his affiliation with the pro-Hezbollah “resistance axis.” Investigators believe Abou Diya sought to expedite the forgery process to secure the academic credential required for candidacy in the upcoming vote. The second suspect was identified as Moussa Hamiyeh.

Security sources said both the State Security Directorate and the General Security Directorate are jointly handling the probe. The investigation revealed that exam boxes had been tampered with and original papers replaced, exposing a coordinated operation involving university staff. Several employees have been detained, and interrogations are underway with the key suspects, including Abou Diya and Hamiyeh.

In parallel, Lebanese University President Professor Bassam Badran is reportedly following up on the case personally, adopting what sources described as an “exceptionally firm” stance. Badran has rejected political interference and mediation attempts to cover up the scandal, emphasizing his determination to protect the university’s reputation and academic integrity.

University sources said the case has shaken the institution’s internal administration and placed it under renewed scrutiny over its ability to confront corruption from within.

Abou Diya’s name is not new to controversy. He was previously implicated in a scandal involving fake scholarship programs for Lebanese students in Belarus, during which he allegedly collected large sums from students in exchange for unfulfilled promises of grants. The affair was reportedly shelved at the time following direct intervention by Wafiq Safa, the Hezbollah security official whose duties were recently suspended.