TURKISH security forces have successfully intercepted a significant counterfeit money operation in Istanbul, resulting in the seizure of $1bn worth of fake currency and the arrest of six individuals, including one Ghanaian and three Swedish nationals.
The Istanbul governor’s office made the announcement on Friday, highlighting the gravity of the operation.
Gendarmerie forces diligently tracked the suspects, leading them to a storage facility located in Istanbul’s Kagithane district, Reuters reported.
It was at this site that they discovered the stash of counterfeit $100 bills, intended for circulation in various African countries. The governor’s office commended the swift action taken by the security forces to prevent the dissemination of the counterfeit money.
Following the seizure, the suspects’ residences were thoroughly searched, leading to the confiscation of cash and jewellery. Additionally, the Swedish and Ghanaian consulates were promptly notified of the arrests, ensuring diplomatic protocols were followed throughout the process.
The magnitude of the counterfeit money haul is unprecedented in Turkey’s history, according to the governor’s office. This successful operation serves as a testament to the vigilance and efficiency of Turkish security forces in combating financial crimes and preserving the integrity of the national currency.
Further investigations are underway to uncover additional details about the operation, including the network involved and the intended destinations of the counterfeit currency.
The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies both domestically and internationally will play a crucial role in dismantling the criminal enterprise behind this elaborate counterfeit money scheme.
Source: Africa Briefing