Three individuals involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit Indian currency notes have been apprehended by the Hyderabad Commissioner’s Task Force. The police seized fake currency with a cumulative value of Rs 2.91 lakh during the operation.

The suspects have been identified as Ramavath Ramu alias Mohammed, 36, a delivery worker for Zomato; Ramavath Mothilal, 35, a driver for Rapido; and Ramavath Gandhi, 19, an auto-rickshaw driver. All three suspects are residents of Telangana. A fourth individual, Sudheer John Chela alias Vamshi, is reportedly on the run.

Background of the Suspects

According to the police, Ramu allegedly resorted to illegal activities after encountering financial hardship, which was exacerbated by issues within his family. Through familial connections, he came into contact with Mothilal, who also became involved in the scheme. The duo reportedly learned methods to produce counterfeit currency by viewing instructional videos available on platforms like YouTube and Instagram.

During their online investigation, Mothilal allegedly discovered a contact through one of the videos, leading him to connect with a person whose number was displayed. Following these instructions, Ramu and Mothilal acquired an Epson colour printer, a scanner, bond paper, and various other supplies necessary for producing the counterfeit currency.

In their counterfeit operations, the gang attempted to replicate key security features present on genuine Indian currency, such as the watermark and the image of Mahatma Gandhi, in an effort to ensure that their fake notes closely resembled authentic currency.

Counterfeit Notes Seized

Authorities reported that a total of 1,124 counterfeit notes were confiscated from the suspects, with an overall face value of Rs 2,91,100. The counterfeit notes included 437 notes of Rs 500, 648 notes of Rs 100, and 39 notes of Rs 200. Additionally, the police seized four genuine Rs 500 notes and four genuine Rs 100 notes, which were allegedly utilised as references while producing the counterfeit notes.

During the operation, law enforcement officials seized various tools and materials used in the counterfeiting process. These included an Epson L6460 colour printer, an Epson colour scanner, a laminator, a paper cutter, liquid ink, bundles of paper, printed images of Gandhi, watermark paper, and wrapping materials. Also confiscated were smartphones and a motorcycle believed to be connected to their criminal activities.

The three individuals taken into custody, along with the evidence gathered during the operation, were transferred to police for further inquiry. Sudheer John Chela remains elusive, and police continue their search for him.

Law Enforcement Action

The arrests and seizures occurred based on credible intelligence received by the Hyderabad Commissioner’s Task Force. Authorities are currently engaging in further investigations to trace the network involved in this counterfeit operation. The department has clarified that this action aims to address the rising concern of counterfeit currency circulation in the region.

The arrests highlight the need for ongoing vigilance and the importance of public awareness regarding the detection of fake currency. Police have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities related to currency exchange and distribution.

As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement agencies are exploring the possibility of additional arrests related to the case, emphasizing their commitment to combatting counterfeiting and upholding the integrity of the nation’s currency.

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