Assam fake currency racket: Accused shot in Guwahati police op, ₹2.56 lakh seized
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
A probe into an alleged fake Indian currency racket in Assam intensified on Saturday, 4 July, after one of two arrested accused sustained a bullet injury during a police operation in Guwahati. Investigators are now working to trace the source of the counterfeit notes and dismantle what they suspect is a wider syndicate operating across the region.
How the Operation Unfolded
The sequence of events began on 2 July, when a Maruti Swift Dzire was intercepted near Nagaland House in the Six Mile area under Dispur Police Station jurisdiction, following specific intelligence inputs. The vehicle's occupants — Ajay Biswakarma and Debojit Deori, both residents of Deorigaon in Assam's Dhemaji district — were reportedly transporting counterfeit Indian currency.
According to investigators, an exchange of fire reportedly took place during the operation, resulting in Biswakarma sustaining a gunshot wound to his right leg. He was immediately shifted to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), where he is currently undergoing treatment, officials stated.
What Was Seized
A search of the intercepted vehicle yielded a black backpack containing eight bundles of suspected counterfeit ₹500 currency notes. Police confirmed that fake currency worth ₹2.56 lakh was recovered, along with other incriminating materials. The vehicle itself has also been taken into custody.
Wider Syndicate Suspected
Preliminary interrogation of the two accused has indicated they may have been involved in similar activities previously, though officials cautioned that these claims are being verified as part of the ongoing investigation. Investigators suspect both men have links to a broader fake currency network active in the region.
Notably, the injured accused has reportedly alleged that certain police personnel were connected to the fake currency trade. The allegation remains unverified, and the police have not issued an official response to the claim. This comes amid growing concern over counterfeit currency circulation in northeastern India, a region historically flagged by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as vulnerable to fake note infiltration.
What Investigators Are Doing Next
Police said efforts are underway to establish the origin of the counterfeit notes, map the supply chain, and identify other members of the suspected racket. The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests have not been ruled out.