Was Rs 12 Lakh in Counterfeit Notes Seized in Alibaug?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Counterfeit currency operations pose serious risks to the economy.
- Alibaug police acted swiftly upon receiving a credible tip-off.
- The recovered equipment indicates large-scale production.
- Investigations are ongoing to identify accomplices.
- Public safety remains a priority for law enforcement agencies.
Alibaug (Maharashtra), Oct 5 (NationPress) A significant bust has revealed a counterfeit currency operation in Alibaug city, resulting in the arrest of one individual and the confiscation of fake Indian currency notes valued at Rs 12 lakh, along with equipment used for printing, officials reported on Sunday.
The suspect, identified as Bhushan Patange, was apprehended during a raid conducted by Alibaug police after receiving credible information about the possession of counterfeit notes in Mayekar Wadi, a central area of the city.
Acting promptly, Alibaug Police Inspector Kishor Sale and his team arrived at the scene on Friday night to conduct the operation, officials stated.
During this operation, law enforcement officials retrieved a total of approximately Rs 12 lakh in counterfeit currency, which comprised notes in denominations of Rs 500, Rs 200, and Rs 100.
In addition to the fake notes, a color printer utilized for printing and a cutter used to trim the notes were also seized from the suspect's possession.
Authorities have indicated that the materials recovered strongly suggest that Patange was involved in a large-scale production of counterfeit currency.
The police have initiated an in-depth investigation to ascertain where the fake notes may have been circulated and whether there are any additional individuals involved in the operation.
Preliminary inquiries have uncovered that Bhushan Patange has a history of criminal activity. A new case has been filed against him at the Alibaug Police Station under relevant sections of the BNS related to counterfeiting and forgery.
Following his arrest, Patange was presented before a court, which has remanded him to six days of police custody for further questioning.
Officials mentioned that efforts are ongoing to identify potential accomplices and to expose the full scope of the counterfeit currency network operating in the area.
The Alibaug police are escalating their efforts to combat such illegal activities and ensure that counterfeit notes are eliminated from circulation.
Further updates will follow as the investigation progresses.