Pandemic's Dark Turn: Fake Currency Racket Busted in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh Police have dismantled a counterfeit currency operation, arresting Nafees Ahmed, Pankaj Gangwar, and Nikhil Mishra. The trio began the illegal activity after losing jobs during the pandemic. Police recovered Rs 4.61 lakh in fake notes and equipment from their setup in Shahjahanpur.

Uttar Pradesh Police have uncovered a large counterfeit currency scheme, taking three individuals into custody, officials announced on Monday. Nafees Ahmed, Pankaj Gangwar, and Nikhil Mishra were identified as the culprits in this case.

Police reported that the three men initiated their counterfeiting operation after losing their jobs due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Superintendent of Police Rajesh Dwivedi revealed that Nikhil Mishra obtained fake currency from Moradabad, distributing it among local shopkeepers.

The operation expanded as Mishra sought larger supplies of counterfeit notes, prompting Nafees to acquire printing equipment in Shahjahanpur. A rented house was used as their production site, where police confiscated Rs 4.61 lakh in fake currency and essential machinery. The arrested individuals are currently in custody, with ongoing investigations.

(With inputs from agencies.)