Intelligence sources fear that certain groups may attempt to scatter counterfeit currency in the market ahead of the upcoming national election to create instability.
Officials warn that fake notes could be used to mislead voters and interfere with the electoral process.
Law enforcement authorities have recently responded promptly to reports of fake currency entering the country from India via the border. Bangladesh Bank, law enforcement, and other government agencies have begun working together to counter the threat, holding several joint meetings on the issue.
In a press release on October 15, Bangladesh Bank advised the public to remain cautious while dealing with cash. The notice urged citizens to carefully check the security features of banknotes including the watermark, security thread, intaglio printing (uneven printing), color-changing ink (where applicable), and micro-text before accepting them.
The central bank also encouraged using formal banking channels for large transactions, opting for digital payments, and contacting police directly or through the 999 emergency number if any suspicious currency is found.
Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has strengthened surveillance at Hili in Dinajpur to prevent counterfeit notes from entering the country. After inspecting the border’s zero-point area, Lt. Col. Latiful Bari, commanding officer of Joypurhat-20 BGB Battalion, said security checks have been tightened at border posts and passport holders crossing through Hili Immigration are being searched.
On 6 November, during a press briefing at the Khagdohor 39 BGB Battalion in Mymensingh, Sector Commander Colonel Sardar Mohammad Mostafizur Rahman said monitoring has been increased to trace the source of the fake currency. He added that awareness activities are underway and domestic counterfeit networks are also under strict watch.
Meanwhile, in Sherpur, police arrested a young man named Mehedi Hasan on 8 October from Ambagan Market in Nalitabari’s Kendua Para area with 21 counterfeit Tk1,000 notes. He was sent to jail through a court order. Nalitabari Police Station OC Sohel Rana said the notes looked almost identical to real money and could hardly be distinguished by the naked eye. Investigators suspect the currency was smuggled across the border and meant for circulation in local markets. Raids are ongoing to arrest others involved.
In two separate incidents, 53 fake Tk100 notes were detected when an elderly woman attempted to deposit Tk300,000 at a bank on 13 October, while on 11 October, 25 counterfeit Tk1,000 notes were found when a man named Nuhu tried to deposit money at Sonali Bank.
AIG (Media) of Bangladesh Police, AHM Shahadat Hossain, said police remain alert across the country to prevent the spread of counterfeit currency.
Bd-pratidin English/ ANI
