Counterfeit notes with face value of Rs 2.38 lakh seized in Bantwal, two arrested

Police also confiscated three mobile phones worth Rs 57,000 and the car allegedly used in the crime, valued at around Rs 5 lakh.

Mangaluru: The Punjalakatte Police have busted a fake currency racket near Pandavarakallu in Badagakajekkaru village of Bantwal taluk, arresting two persons and seizing counterfeit notes and other materials worth nearly Rs 7.96 lakh.

According to police, Sub-Inspector Rajesh KV (Law & Order) received credible information on May 1 about two persons were allegedly transporting and storing counterfeit currency in a car at Koominadka near Pandavarakallu with the intent of circulating the counterfeit notes for financial gain.

Acting on the tip-off, the police team rushed to the spot and conducted a raid. During the operation, two accused, Mohammed Sameer (28) and Mohammed Irfan (26), were taken into custody, while another suspect, Rasheed Kundadka, managed to flee.

Police seized five bundles of counterfeit Rs 500 notes with a total face value of Rs 2.38 lakh. They also confiscated three mobile phones worth Rs 57,000 and the car allegedly used in the crime, valued at around Rs 5 lakh.

The total value of the seized items is estimated at Rs 7.96 lakh.

A case has been registered at the Punjalakatte Police Station under Sections 179, 180, and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023. Further investigation is underway.