The Atlantic RCMP, in collaboration with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), has successfully seized over $100,000 in counterfeit Canadian currency that was being shipped from China. This operation was the result of a months-long investigation aimed at tracking down fake currency and preventing its distribution across Canada.
Cpl. Mitch Thompson of the Commercial Crime Section expressed concern regarding the circulation of counterfeit money, stating, “Unfortunately, counterfeit money is in circulation across the country. When printed on polymer, some fake bills may look real if you don’t pay attention to the security features embedded in legitimate currency.” His remarks highlight the nuanced challenge posed by counterfeit bills that can closely resemble authentic ones.
The investigation commenced on January 9, when border officers at a Quebec airport intercepted a package containing counterfeit holographic stickers designed to mimic security strips typically found on Canadian cash. Subsequently, on January 27, CBSA agents at an Ontario processing facility uncovered $30,000 in fake bills, which included denominations of $10, $20, $50, and $100. This discovery led officials to trace the counterfeit currency back to an intended recipient in Nova Scotia.
Following this link, the RCMP stationed in the Glace Bay area acted swiftly, preparing for a raid to apprehend those involved with the counterfeit operation. On February 11, officers executed a search warrant at a residence in the region, where they recovered holographic stickers, approximately $70,000 in counterfeit bills, various electronic devices, and a rifle. The investigation into this counterfeit operation continues under the oversight of the RCMP in Nova Scotia.
As a precaution, the RCMP has issued a warning to businesses accepting cash. They emphasized the importance of familiarizing oneself with the security features of legitimate bank notes, stating that “in Canada, it’s an offence to knowingly use or possess counterfeit money.” Cpl. Thompson noted that if a business unknowingly accepts counterfeit currency as legal tender, they cannot be reimbursed and will incur the loss themselves. This serves as a crucial reminder for both businesses and individuals to be vigilant in their transactions to avoid falling victim to fraud.
The police have observed a rising trend in the interception of counterfeit currency originating from China and are urging the public to remain alert and educated about counterfeit detection. The ongoing efforts by the RCMP and CBSA in addressing this issue reflect a commitment to maintaining the integrity of Canada's monetary system and protecting citizens from fraud.
