Vijayawada: A 23-year-old man from Tripura was arrested by Krishnalanka police on Wednesday for allegedly attempting to circulate counterfeit Rs 500 currency notes at a lodge near the Vijayawada bus stand. Police seized 17 fake notes with a face value of Rs 8,500 from his possession and produced him before a court.
Accused's Background
The accused, identified as Ritip Ghosh, a resident of West Tripura district, was employed in maintaining AC coaches of long-distance trains, replacing blankets and bedrolls. During interrogation, he reportedly confessed to purchasing 17 counterfeit Rs 500 notes from an unidentified person during a train journey from Agartala to Charlapalli earlier this month.
How the Fake Notes Were Acquired
Ghosh told police that an unknown co-passenger offered him the fake notes, claiming they closely resembled genuine currency and could be exchanged without raising suspicion. Tempted by the prospect of easy money, he paid Rs 2,000 and obtained the counterfeit notes.
Attempt to Circulate Fake Currency
After arriving in Vijayawada, Ghosh checked into a lodge opposite the city bus stand. Police said he initially paid the room rent via PhonePe but later ran short of cash. In an attempt to obtain cash, he allegedly handed over three Rs 500 notes to the lodge receptionist and requested a digital payment in return.
The receptionist became suspicious upon examining the notes and informed the lodge owner. When questioned, the accused allegedly tried to flee, but lodge staff apprehended him and handed him over to Krishnalanka police.
Evidence and Investigation
During questioning, the accused produced all 17 counterfeit notes in his possession. Police examined the currency and confirmed the notes were fake. The counterfeit currency was seized as evidence, and a case has been registered. An investigation is underway.
For more updates on gold and silver rates, bank holidays, public holidays, and fuel prices in Vijayawada, check related articles.
