Investigation into counterfeit currency racket extends to other states; NIA probes Haryana and Nepal connections.
Saharanpur. The investigation into the counterfeit currency scandal in Saharanpur has expanded beyond the local level, reaching other states and potentially involving international connections. Intensifying its probe, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted a continuous 36-hour inspection of the Punjab National Bank (PNB) currency chest and associated branches in Saharanpur. During this operation, the agency gathered several crucial pieces of information and leads.
Based on indications found during the investigation, the NIA has now begun examining potential links to Haryana. Additionally, given the suspicion of a connection to an international counterfeit currency network, contact has been established with the investigative agency in Nepal.
Uproar over discovery of counterfeit notes worth ₹17.29 crore
The entire case centers on the Punjab National Bank (PNB) currency chest located at Sophia Market near Ghantaghar in Saharanpur. A stir was created after counterfeit notes amounting to approximately ₹17.29 crore were discovered there.
Once the matter came to light, both local police and investigative agencies swung into action. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, SSP Abhinandan assigned the investigation to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and the Crime Branch. Meanwhile, national investigative agencies also took the matter seriously and began probing various aspects of the case.
NIA inspects currency chest and branches
An NIA team from Delhi arrived in Saharanpur on Thursday and began inspecting the currency chest. The team questioned bank officials and relevant staff members while examining the documentation.
During the investigation, which lasted nearly 36 hours, the NIA sought to understand the source of the counterfeit notes, the routes by which they entered the banking system, and the roles played by the individuals involved.
The agency also gathered information regarding the cash inflow and outflow processes at the currency chest, records, transaction-related documents, and security arrangements.
Investigating the Haryana connection
Following leads uncovered during the probe, the NIA has initiated an investigation into a potential connection with Haryana. The agency is attempting to determine whether the counterfeit currency network is linked to another state. Investigating officers are also working to determine where the counterfeit notes were produced, the channels used to distribute them, and the number of individuals involved in this entire network.
Contact with Nepal
Given the possibility of an international connection, contact has been established with investigative agencies in Nepal. Agencies are trying to ascertain whether the counterfeit notes were supplied from across the border.
Networks dealing in counterfeit currency have previously surfaced in areas along the India-Nepal border. Consequently, investigative agencies are proceeding by considering every possible angle.
Raids Underway to Apprehend Accused
Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is taking continuous action at the local level to arrest the accused. The team is conducting raids at the residences of the accused’s relatives and acquaintances, as well as at their suspected hideouts.
Investigative agencies are gathering information on the activities and contacts of suspicious individuals. Police officials state that efforts are underway to soon track down others linked to the case.
Multiple Agencies Investigating
Following the seizure of such a large quantity of counterfeit notes, the investigation is proceeding on multiple levels. The SIT, the Crime Branch, and the NIA are investigating different aspects of the case.
While local agencies are gathering information on the accused and their network, the NIA is investigating the broader network and potential inter-state or international connections.
Expectation of Further Revelations
Investigative agencies believe that significant revelations could emerge in the coming days. The case involving counterfeit notes worth ₹17.29 crore is not considered to be limited merely to the local level.
Currently, the agencies are working to piece together the available clues. As the investigation progresses, a clearer picture of the counterfeit currency network and the individuals involved is expected to emerge.