Daijiworld Media Network - Alibaug

Alibaug, Oct 5: A major counterfeit currency operation was uncovered in Alibaug city after police arrested a man in possession of fake Indian currency worth Rs 12 lac. The accused, Bhushan Patange, was apprehended following a late-night raid on Friday in the Mayekar Wadi area, triggered by a tip-off.

Led by Police Inspector Kishor Sale, the Alibaug police team seized counterfeit notes in Rs 500, Rs 200, and Rs 100 denominations, along with a colour printer and cutter used for printing and trimming the fake currency. Officials believe the equipment and volume of seized notes point to large-scale counterfeiting activity.

Patange, who has a prior criminal record, is now facing fresh charges under counterfeiting and forgery laws. He was presented before a local court and remanded to six days of police custody as investigations continue.

Authorities are now working to determine the extent of the racket, including how widely the fake notes were circulated and whether others were involved. Efforts to identify potential accomplices are underway as part of an intensified crackdown on illegal currency production in the region. Further developments are expected as the probe unfolds.