The Gold Coast Southern Investigative Group is warning local businesses and members of the community to be vigilant after the recent arrest of a man for the alleged production of counterfeit currency, Queensland Police say.
Detectives executed a search warrant on Tuesday, May 30 at a Broadbeach apartment where it will be alleged they located and seized counterfeit currency.
It will also be alleged detectives located a number of items used in the production of counterfeit currency including electronic printers, scanners and drug related items.
A 25-year-old Broadbeach man was charged with making counterfeit money, possessing counterfeit money, uttering counterfeit money and fraud.
He appeared before Southport Magistrates Court on May 31.
A 23-year-old woman, also arrested at the Broadbeach residence, was charged on unrelated matters.
Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Garrett from the Southern Investigative Group said we remind the community to remain vigilant and check the quality of the all notes, in particular when dealing with large denomination notes.
"We are aware people can inadvertently receive these notes in change. Check notes and if you think you have been given a fake note, report it to police," Detective Senior Sergeant Garrett said.
"Information from the public is crucial and I urge anyone who has further information to contact police."
Tips to spot counterfeit notes:
1 Is it plastic: You can scrunch the banknote in your hand and a genuine banknote should spring back
2. Look for the Coat of Arms: If you hold the banknote to the light, you should see the Australian Coat of Arms
3. Look for the star: Diamond-shaped patterns are printed inside a circle on both sides of the banknote. If you hold the banknote up to the light, the patterns should line up perfectly to form a seven-pointed star.
4. Check the clear window: It should be an integral part of the banknote not an addition.
More information on detecting counterfeit notes can be viewed on the Reserve Bank of Australia website: http://banknotes.rba.gov.au/assets/pdf/counterfeit-detection-guide.pdf
If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers.
