Police have appealed to the public to be aware of counterfeit $100 notes that may be circulating in parts of Auckland, especially in the Waitakere (West Auckland) area.
Waitemata Police Constable Rebecca Brown said that a 26-year-old man has been arrested in this connection and has requested dealers who may have had customers paying for goods with fake currency.
The man, stated to be from Henderson, has been charged with currency and counterfeit offences and is due to appear at the Waitakere District Court on October 19, 2018.
“Police are aware of a number of items that have been purchased with counterfeit $100 notes, predominantly in the West Auckland area. However, we believe that the offending may be wider spread,” she said.
Items purchased
Constable Rebecca said that counterfeit notes of $100 denomination has been used to purchase petrol, food, cigarettes and other items from various retailers throughout Auckland.
“A majority of the offending has occurred in the Henderson, Titirangi, Te Atatu and Avondale areas. However, we believe that there may be more in counterfeit notes currently in circulation and we urge retailers to contact us if they believe that they are in possession of these notes,” she said.
Poor Quality Notes
Constable Rebecca said that the fake notes are of very poor quality and are relatively easy to identify. They do not have a clear panel and the paper used is not good.
“On close inspection, you can see that they have roughly cut edges and black lines. It is not too difficult for anyone to see they are not genuine,” she said.
Constable Rebecca said that if anyone believes that they are in possession of counterfeit notes, they should contact the Police immediately.
People with relevant information may also contact Constable Rebecca on (09) 8390694.
Information can also be provided anonymously to CrimeStoppers on 0800-555111.
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Photo Caption:
Spot the Differences: Image Courtesy: Stuff New Zealand
