The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has successfully dismantled two Fake Indian Currency Note (FICN) manufacturing operations in Maharashtra and Haryana. This significant operation underscores the government’s commitment to preserving economic stability and curbing illicit activities that threaten India’s financial security.
The Seizure That Sparked the Investigation
The breakthrough began when the Delhi Customs (Preventive) Commissionerate intercepted a suspicious consignment at the New Courier Terminal in Delhi on January 24, 2025. The consignment, originating from Hong Kong, contained 203 sheets of high-quality currency paper embedded with security threads bearing ‘RBI’ and ‘Bharat’ inscriptions—key security features of genuine Indian currency.
Understanding the gravity of the situation, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) assumed control of the investigation on February 3, 2025. This seizure indicated a meticulously organized attempt to replicate and distribute counterfeit Indian currency, posing a severe risk to national security and economic stability.
Unraveling the Network: Multiple Arrests Across States
The investigation led authorities to two primary suspects—one in Ghazipur District, Uttar Pradesh, and another in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Both individuals were identified as the importers of the counterfeit paper. Following this, the intended recipient of the consignment was located and apprehended in Rajasthan on February 9, 2025.
During the raid at the suspect’s residence in Bhiwani district, Haryana, enforcement officers discovered a printer and partially printed counterfeit notes, further cementing the allegations. The case was then transferred to the Haryana Police for necessary legal action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Parallel Operation in Maharashtra: Another FICN Unit Busted
While probing the counterfeit currency network, authorities uncovered another illegal printing operation in Thane district, Maharashtra. Here, two more individuals were apprehended, and a series of incriminating materials were confiscated, including:
- Photoshop files with different typesets of ₹500 notes
- Currency paper embedded with security threads
With substantial evidence pointing towards organized counterfeiting operations, the case was handed over to the Maharashtra Police for further action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Legal Action and Nationwide Implications
As a result of this multi-state operation, three key individuals directly involved in printing and distributing counterfeit currency have been arrested. FIRs have been registered based on the complaints lodged by the DRI officers, ensuring strict legal proceedings against the culprits.
The Broader Impact: Strengthening Economic Security
Counterfeit currency is a serious threat to India’s economy, affecting inflation, financial institutions, and public confidence in the monetary system. The DRI’s success in dismantling these counterfeit operations is a testament to India’s robust security apparatus and its proactive approach to tackling financial crimes.
This case also highlights the growing use of advanced technology in counterfeiting, necessitating enhanced security features in banknotes and stringent import checks on security-sensitive materials.
Conclusion
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence’s coordinated efforts in this operation reaffirm its commitment to safeguarding India’s economic integrity. With continuous vigilance and technological advancements, India is taking a firm stand against counterfeit currency networks, ensuring a more secure and resilient financial system.
The crackdown serves as a warning to illegal operatives attempting to undermine India’s economy and a reassurance to citizens that stringent action is being taken against such crimes.
