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NIA arrests two in Rs 17.29 crore fake currency case at PNB branch
The National Investigation Agency has arrested two men in connection with the discovery of counterfeit notes worth Rs 17.29 crore at a Punjab National Bank currency chest in Saharanpur. Investigators say the duo played key roles in the counterfeiting operation.
LSN India ·
NEW DELHI — The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Ajay Kumar and Harish Raunta in connection with a major counterfeit currency racket uncovered at a Punjab National Bank currency chest in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh.
The two men are accused of playing central roles in a scheme that resulted in the circulation of fake notes valued at Rs 17.29 crore. The discovery at the PNB facility has prompted a wider investigation into the entire network allegedly involved in producing and distributing the counterfeit currency.
The NIA, India's primary counter-terrorism and financial crime investigating body, has assumed control of the case and is pursuing multiple leads to identify other members of the operation. Officials said the investigation is focused on tracing the source of the counterfeit notes and determining how they entered the banking system.
The arrests represent a significant breakthrough in what appears to be an organized counterfeiting operation. Investigators have indicated that further arrests may follow as the probe progresses into the full extent of the criminal network.