AN operation to clamp down on illegal colleges in the country has landed seven people behind bars and resulted in the closure of 14 bogus institutions.

AN operation to clamp down on illegal colleges in the country has landed seven people behind bars and resulted in the closure of 14 bogus institutions.

During the raids that started a month ago, police confiscated "certificates" which were issued to students on completion of their studies. Some of the fake certificates even resemble those of the South African Qualifications Authority, Umalusi, and other certification bodies.

Of those arrested, four are Ugandans, one a Nigerian and two South Africans.

Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa, pictured, said: "Instead of refraining from their illegal practices, these 'directors' ignored our call. Now they are feeling the heat.

"Beyond just arresting these scoundrels who rob our children of their future, we are also embarking on a campaign to name and shame thempublicly."

Preliminary investigations have revealed that there are 48 unregistered private FET colleges around Pietermaritzburg and Durban. There are 10 in Bloemfontein, five in Mthatha in Eastern Cape and eight in Mafikeng, North West.

In Johannesburg, police identified the Immaculate College of Commerce and Engineering and Westridge College as operating illegally.

Mthethwa urged students who have "qualified" at these colleges to verify their qualifications with the Department of Higher Education.