PTBP Web Desk
Karachi police have dismantled an alleged counterfeit currency network operating ahead of the Eid shopping season and arrested three suspects accused of circulating fake banknotes in local markets.
According to police officials, the operation was carried out after investigators received a tip-off regarding the sale of counterfeit Pakistani currency in different parts of the city. Authorities feared the fake notes could spread rapidly during Eid shopping, when cash transactions typically increase across markets and shopping centers.
SP Investigation Qais Khan said the suspects were intercepted before the counterfeit money could be widely distributed. Police recovered fake currency worth Rs. 200,000 during the raid, including forged Rs. 5,000 notes that officials described as highly sophisticated.
Investigators revealed that the accused were allegedly selling fake Rs. 5,000 notes for only Rs. 1,000 each. In another planned transaction, the group reportedly intended to exchange counterfeit currency worth Rs. 100,000 for Rs. 30,000 in genuine cash.
The arrested suspects were identified as Sajid Shahani, Saddam Jatoi, and Kamil Hamza. Police officials stated that the suspects had allegedly been deceiving buyers and traders by presenting the counterfeit notes as genuine currency.
Authorities warned that fake currency circulation usually increases before major festivals and shopping seasons, as criminals attempt to exploit heavy cash movement in markets. Police urged citizens, traders, and shopkeepers to carefully examine banknotes before accepting them during Eid-related business activities.
Officials added that the counterfeit notes appeared professionally printed, making them difficult for ordinary citizens to detect without proper verification methods. Investigators are now examining whether the suspects were linked to a larger counterfeit currency network operating in Karachi and other cities.
A formal case has been registered against the accused, while further investigations are underway to identify additional facilitators and suppliers connected to the operation.
Police also encouraged the public to report suspicious financial activities to law enforcement agencies to help prevent the circulation of fake Pakistani currency in local markets.
