Inp.polri.go.id - Gowa. The South Sulawesi Regional Police continues to investigate a network of counterfeit money makers and distributors, suspected to have international connections after the uncovering of a counterfeit money operation at the Library Building of the Alauddin State Islamic University (UIN) in Samata, Gowa.
South Sulawesi Police Chief, Inspector General Yudhiawan Wibisono, revealed on Thursday (19/12/2024) that the counterfeit money operation involved 17 suspects, including two employees of a state-owned bank, a university official, and public servants.
The counterfeit bills, in Rp100,000 denominations, were produced using imported materials, including paper and ink sourced from China, according to antaranews.com.
"The raw materials, such as paper and ink, were purchased from China, highlighting the international scope of this illegal operation," Chief Yudhiawan said.
The investigation began after reports of counterfeit money circulation were received by the local police. Initial arrests of two suspects led investigators to a suspect, identified as AI, a UIN Alauddin official, who was arrested on 8 December 2024. Further arrests followed, including SAR, the suspected producer of the fake bills.
A total of 4,554 counterfeit Rp100,000 notes were seized, along with other materials such as special printing plates, inks, and counterfeit certificates.
The investigation continues, with suspects acknowledging their involvement in the counterfeit operation since 2010.
(mg/inp/pr/nm)