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Zimbabwe police warn of syndicate circulating counterfeit US$100 notes
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The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a warning to the public regarding a syndicate circulating counterfeit US dollar notes in denominations of $100. The illegal operation is reportedly active in Mashonaland West province, with particular focus on Chinhoyi, the administrative capital.
ZRP provincial spokesperson Inspector Ian Kohwera confirmed the presence of the syndicate, which includes both male and female members, and emphasized that law enforcement authorities are actively working to track down the culprits.
"Police in Mashonaland West Province are concerned about the circulation of fake US dollar notes in the region, especially in Chinhoyi town," Kohwera told NewZimbabwe.com. "The syndicate, posing as legitimate customers, is targeting businesses such as retail shops, service stations, beer outlets, and even vendors. They use counterfeit $100 notes to make small purchases and then request change, defrauding businesspeople and individuals."
The fraudsters, according to police, have been seen using various luxury vehicles, including Toyota Fortuners, to carry out their operations. This highlights the sophistication of the criminal group, which has been careful to avoid detection while perpetrating its schemes.
Inspector Kohwera has urged the public to remain vigilant, especially those in the business sector, and to take extra care when handling US dollar notes. "We are asking businesses to be cautious and verify the authenticity of US$100 notes before accepting them as payment for goods or services," he said.
In an effort to curb the scam, the ZRP has called on anyone with information about the syndicate's activities to come forward. "Anyone with information that could help lead to the arrest of these fraudsters is encouraged to report it to the nearest police station," Kohwera added.
The police also recommended that both the business community and the general public familiarize themselves with the security features of not only US dollar notes but all currencies in circulation. This, they said, is essential to prevent falling victim to counterfeit scams.
As the investigation continues, the ZRP is stepping up efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure that the public is protected from such fraudulent activities.
ZRP provincial spokesperson Inspector Ian Kohwera confirmed the presence of the syndicate, which includes both male and female members, and emphasized that law enforcement authorities are actively working to track down the culprits.
"Police in Mashonaland West Province are concerned about the circulation of fake US dollar notes in the region, especially in Chinhoyi town," Kohwera told NewZimbabwe.com. "The syndicate, posing as legitimate customers, is targeting businesses such as retail shops, service stations, beer outlets, and even vendors. They use counterfeit $100 notes to make small purchases and then request change, defrauding businesspeople and individuals."
The fraudsters, according to police, have been seen using various luxury vehicles, including Toyota Fortuners, to carry out their operations. This highlights the sophistication of the criminal group, which has been careful to avoid detection while perpetrating its schemes.
In an effort to curb the scam, the ZRP has called on anyone with information about the syndicate's activities to come forward. "Anyone with information that could help lead to the arrest of these fraudsters is encouraged to report it to the nearest police station," Kohwera added.
The police also recommended that both the business community and the general public familiarize themselves with the security features of not only US dollar notes but all currencies in circulation. This, they said, is essential to prevent falling victim to counterfeit scams.
As the investigation continues, the ZRP is stepping up efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure that the public is protected from such fraudulent activities.
Source - NewZimbabwe
