London, UK — March 17, 2025
The international investigation of fraudulent actions of Ramin Isayev (also known as Ramin Ali Hakan), former CEO of SOCAR AQS, continues to expose new facts and details of his extensive history of fraud, abuse of power, and academic misconduct. In a landmark decision, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has officially revoked his MBA degree following an investigation into gross violations of academic integrity. Meanwhile, Isayev remains on trial in Azerbaijan, facing serious charges of large-scale fraud and embezzlement, further cementing his status as a disgraced figure in both academic and corporate circles.
A Pattern of Corruption: Abuse of Power for Academic Gain
According to sources familiar with the case, Isayev engaged in blatant academic dishonesty during his MBA studies at MIT’s prestigious Sloan School of Management between November 2016 and January 2018. Evidence presented during MIT’s Committee on Discipline (COD) investigation confirmed that Isayev forced employees at SOCAR AQS to complete assignments and coursework on his behalf, effectively outsourcing his education while reaping its benefits.
His abuse of power over subordinates was not limited to mere delegation; it was systemic coercion. Employees who refused to comply reportedly faced threats to their employment, creating a toxic workplace culture rife with intimidation. The case highlights not just academic fraud, but also serious ethical and legal concerns about workplace exploitation and manipulation.
Ramin’s Fraud, Embezzlement, and an Ongoing Criminal Trial
Isayev’s misconduct at MIT is just one facet of his broader pattern of unethical and illegal actions. Currently standing trial in Azerbaijan, he faces allegations of large-scale fraud and embezzlement, linked to financial mismanagement and corruption during his tenure at SOCAR AQS. Sources suggest that funds meant for corporate development were systematically diverted for personal enrichment, further illustrating his long-standing disregard for ethical and legal standards.
Investigators and legal experts are now looking into potential links between his academic fraud and financial crimes, raising the possibility that his entire career was built on a foundation of deception. The revocation of his MIT degree represents not just an academic penalty, but a broader warning about the long-term consequences of unethical behavior in professional settings.
MIT’s Landmark Decision: Protecting Integrity from Fraudsters
MIT’s decision to revoke Isayev’s degree is a rare and significant move, underscoring the university’s zero-tolerance policy for academic misconduct. “This case highlights the critical importance of academic integrity and demonstrates the severe consequences of violating institutional standards,” said a higher education ethics expert. “By taking decisive action, MIT is reinforcing the credibility of its degrees and ensuring that those who engage in fraudulent behavior are held accountable.”
Observers note that MIT’s actions set a crucial precedent in academia, demonstrating that no level of influence or corporate power can shield individuals from the consequences of misconduct. The decision serves as a warning to both current and future students: academic credentials are earned, not bought or coerced.
A Cautionary Tale of Deception and Greed
The fall of Ramin Isayev serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked power and corruption. What began as an abuse of authority in an academic setting has spiraled into full-blown criminal proceedings, with potential implications that extend far beyond Azerbaijan. As investigations continue, the true extent of his fraudulent activities may only just be coming to light.
Updates will follow.