Krishna District Police Uncover Major Counterfeit Currency Operation
In a significant crackdown on financial crime, police in Krishna district have successfully unearthed a sophisticated counterfeit currency racket, leading to the arrest of three individuals allegedly involved in printing and circulating fake Indian currency notes. The operation resulted in the seizure of counterfeit notes with a face value of approximately ₹6 lakh, along with various printing equipment and materials used in the illicit manufacturing process.
Wine Shop Detection Triggers Investigation
The case first came to light when suspicious currency notes were detected at a wine shop located in Sangamudi village within Kruthivennu mandal. Alert staff members noticed irregularities in the cash tendered by customers, prompting them to immediately notify local law enforcement authorities. Based on their formal complaint, police authorities swiftly formed two special investigation teams to delve into the matter and track down those responsible.
Technical Investigation Leads to Arrests
During their thorough probe, officers meticulously collected and analyzed CCTV footage alongside other technical evidence, which ultimately helped identify the accused individuals as Ranjit Singh, Brahma Uma Shankar, and Dilip. Further investigation revealed that the trio had rented a residential property in Kokavanipalem of Pendurthi mandal, where they allegedly established their counterfeit currency printing operation using computer systems and specialized printers.
Modus Operandi and Festival Timing
Police officials disclosed that the accused employed a calculated exchange strategy, swapping fake notes worth ₹1 lakh for ₹30,000 in genuine currency, primarily targeting unsuspecting individuals. The racket reportedly became particularly active during the Sankranti festival period, a time traditionally marked by heightened cash transactions and financial activity across the region. Authorities confirmed that a portion of the counterfeit currency had already been successfully circulated within local markets, while additional attempts were being made at various wine shops and petrol pumps.
Seizures and Legal Proceedings
Following the arrests, police conducted comprehensive searches and seized all counterfeit currency, printers, and related materials from the rented premises. A formal case has been registered under relevant sections of law, and the accused were presented before the Bantumilli court, which subsequently remanded them to judicial custody pending further legal proceedings.
Ongoing Investigation and Network Concerns
Police officials have emphasized that their investigation remains ongoing, with particular focus on determining whether the arrested individuals had connections to a larger, more extensive counterfeit currency network. Authorities are also working diligently to trace the spread of fake notes in other areas of Krishna district and potentially beyond, aiming to completely dismantle any associated criminal operations and prevent further circulation of counterfeit currency in the region.
