DRI Cracks Down on Fake Currency Operations
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has intensified its efforts to combat the illegal printing and distribution of Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN). Recent operations have led to multiple arrests and the dismantling of several counterfeit currency modules across India. This crackdown highlights the ongoing battle against financial fraud and the measures being taken to safeguard the economy.
Arrests and Discoveries in Early February
On February 8, 2025, the DRI made significant strides in its fight against counterfeit currency. The agency arrested two individuals in Ghazipur District, Uttar Pradesh, and Bengaluru, Karnataka. These individuals were identified as the primary importers of high-quality security paper. This paper featured inscriptions of “RBI” and “Bharat,” indicating its intended use for legitimate currency production.
The following day, the DRI expanded its operation and uncovered two facilities in Thane, Maharashtra, and Bhiwani District, Haryana. These locations were found to be printing FICN using the imported security paper. The jurisdictional police acted on complaints filed by the DRI, leading to the arrest of three additional suspects. This series of arrests marked a significant step in disrupting the supply chain of counterfeit currency.
A Widespread Operation Across Multiple States
Continuing its aggressive campaign, the DRI conducted simultaneous searches on February 20, 2025, at 11 locations across Maharashtra, Haryana, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Bihar. This operation resulted in the dismantling of seven more modules involved in the production of FICN.
In Vikhroli West, Mumbai, DRI officials located a sophisticated printing facility hidden in a densely populated area. They seized fake currency notes in denominations of Rs. 50 and Rs. 100, along with various printing tools and machinery. Items confiscated included laptops, printers, pen drives, and security paper. The authorities arrested the individual responsible for this operation, and all seized items were handed over to the jurisdictional police for further investigation under the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Further Investigations and Arrests
The DRI’s investigation did not stop in Mumbai. Similar setups were discovered in Sangamner and Kolhapur districts, where computers and printers were used to produce counterfeit notes. In both locations, the DRI’s complaints led to the arrest of two more suspects.
The investigation into the Kolhapur module revealed connections to another printing operation in Belgaum, leading to the arrest of three additional individuals. This interconnected web of counterfeit currency operations underscores the extensive nature of the problem and the DRI’s commitment to addressing it.
Tracing the Source of Security Paper
The DRI’s efforts extended beyond Maharashtra. In three other locations—West Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh, Khagaria District in Bihar, and Rohtak in Haryana—the agency traced the importers of the security paper. In West Godavari, restricted security paper and a printer were seized, while in Khagaria, laptops and additional security paper were recovered. The jurisdictional police arrested the three suspects based on the DRI’s complaints, and the investigations are ongoing under the BNS.
These operations reflect the DRI’s determination to dismantle the networks involved in counterfeit currency production. The agency’s proactive approach aims to protect the integrity of India’s financial system and ensure that those involved in such illegal activities are brought to justice.
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