Fake Currency Case in Odisha: A routine scooter sale through OLX took an unexpected turn in Odisha’s Bargarh district after a minor who arrived to purchase an Ola scooter was detained with fake currency notes worth ₹45,000.
The Bargarh Town Police are investigating the case and trying to determine where the counterfeit notes came from and whether the minor was connected to a larger fake currency network.
Suspicion Over the Thick Bundle of Cash
According to the information available, Bargarh resident Swagat Sahu had posted an advertisement on OLX on September 11 to sell his Ola scooter.
A few days later, a prospective buyer contacted him. The two reportedly communicated through WhatsApp calls and chats before agreeing on a deal worth ₹45,000.
The buyer arrived in Bargarh on Tuesday and handed over the cash to complete the scooter purchase. However, Sahu noticed that the bundle of notes appeared unusually thick.
Suspecting something was wrong, he decided to have the cash verified at a bank.
The bank examination reportedly revealed that the entire ₹45,000 amount consisted of counterfeit currency. Sahu immediately informed Bargarh Town Police, following which officers arrived at the spot and detained the minor.
Fake ₹500, ₹200 and ₹100 Notes Seized
Police said the seized counterfeit currency included ₹500, ₹200 and ₹100 denomination notes.
The preliminary investigation has indicated that the cash may have been obtained through an online source. However, police are conducting a detailed investigation to establish exactly how the minor received the counterfeit notes.
Investigators are also trying to find out who supplied the fake currency and whether the teenager had any connection with an organised counterfeit currency network.
The detained minor is reportedly a resident of Sundargarh district and had travelled to Bargarh to purchase the scooter.
Police Investigating Possible Network
Sahu told police that after the scooter deal was finalised, the buyer arrived at the agreed location and handed over ₹45,000 in cash. The unusual thickness of the bundle raised his suspicion, prompting him to get the money checked at a bank.
After the notes were found to be counterfeit, the seller alerted the police and handed the buyer over to them.
The Bargarh Town Police are continuing their investigation. Officers are examining the source of the counterfeit currency, how it reached the minor and whether other people may be involved in the case.
Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
