Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Metro Jaya Regional Police has arrested 12 individuals involved in counterfeiting and circulating US dollars. The arrests of MZ, ASA, RDP, AS, IR, Y alias G, M alias Y, RW, MS, R, and A were carried out at two separate locations, Police Senior Superintendent Auliansyah Lubis, the Director of Special Criminal Investigation of the Metro Jaya Regional Police, revealed.

The investigation was launched based on information provided by the public who had become aware of the circulation of counterfeit US dollar bills in the denomination of 100 USD. Following up on the report, the personnel of the Subdivision II Fismondev of Metro Jaya's Special Criminal Investigation Directorate took on the role of potential buyers. During this covert operation, an agreement was reached for the sale of 1,000 counterfeit 100 USD bills, with prices ranging from Rp50,000,000 to Rp100,000,000.

"Taking decisive action was crucial, as this criminal activity not only poses a threat to individuals but also has the potential to disrupt the wider economy. The large-scale circulation of counterfeit currency can lead to inflation and erode public trust," he stated during a press conference held on Friday (19/5/23).

The suspects will face charges under Article 245 of the Criminal Code and/or in conjunction with Article 55 and Article 56, which carry a maximum prison sentence of 15 years.

(ay/hn/um)