10 held with fake currency worth ₹37 lakh in Vizag

In a major crackdown on counterfeit currency circulation, city police arrested 10 persons and seized fake notes worth about ₹37 lakh during a vehicle-checking operation in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. The action followed a joint operation by the Maharanipeta police and the City Task Force (CTF).

Police said the operation was initiated after receiving credible information about individuals transporting counterfeit currency in the city. Acting on the tip-off, police teams set up vehicle checks along the busy stretch between Jagadamba Junction and Collectorate Road.

During the checks, a car carrying three individuals was intercepted. A thorough search of the vehicle and its occupants led to the recovery of counterfeit currency notes worth ₹37 lakh, all in ₹2,000 denominations. Police also seized ₹3.18 lakh in genuine cash from their possession.

The three suspects were detained and questioned. During interrogation, they reportedly revealed details that led investigators to a hotel in Dwaraka Nagar. Acting on the information, police conducted a raid at the hotel premises.

Seven more persons suspected of being part of the counterfeit currency network were taken into custody during the raid. Police also recovered an additional ₹38,000 in fake currency notes, all in ₹500 denominations.

A case has been registered against the accused. Police said further investigation is underway to trace the source of the counterfeit currency and to ascertain whether the accused are linked to a larger network involved in circulating fake notes.