Please attribute to Constable Rebecca Brown, Waitemata Police.
Police would like to hear from any retailers who may have had customers paying for goods with counterfeit money following the arrest of a 26-year old man.
Police are aware of a number of items that have been purchased with counterfeit $100 notes, predominantly in the west Auckland area, however police believe the offending may be wider spread.
The counterfeit money which consists mainly of $100 denominations, has been used to purchase goods such as petrol, food and cigarettes from various retailers throughout Auckland.
“The majority of the offending has occurred in the Henderson, Titirangi, Te Atatu and Avondale areas, however we believe there may be more in counterfeit notes currently in circulation and we’re urging retailers to contact us if they believe they are in possession of these notes,” said Constable Brown.
“The notes are very poor quality and relatively easy to spot as counterfeit money, they do not have a clear panel and the paper they are printed on does not feel legitimate. On close inspection you can see they have roughly cut edges and black lines – it’s not too difficult for anyone to see they are not genuine,” said Constable Brown.
If anyone believes they are in possession of counterfeit notes we urge you to contact police immediately.
Police have charged a 26-year-old Henderson man with currency and counterfeit offences and is due to appear Waitakere District Court on 19 October, 2018.
If you have any information that could help our investigation, please contact Constable Rebecca Brown from Henderson Police on (09) 839 0694.
Alternatively, information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Monique Caddy/NZ Police