Incident Overview
The Karnataka Police recently dismantled a counterfeit currency racket operating in Belagavi district. Six individuals have been apprehended in connection with the operation, which involved the production and distribution of fake currency notes. The racket was reportedly inspired by the Hindi web series ‘Farzi.’
Details of the Arrest
Belagavi SP Bheemashankar Guled confirmed the arrests of Anwar Yadawad, Saddam Yadalli, Ravi Hyagadi, Dundappa Onashenavi, Vittal Hosathotal, and Mallappa Kundali. The suspects were caught during a police operation aimed at seizing a car in Kadabagatti Gudda, Gokak town. Inside the vehicle, officers discovered 305 counterfeit Rs 100 notes and 6,792 counterfeit Rs 500 notes.
Seized Items and Estimated Value
The police also confiscated a range of items used in the production of fake currency, including:
- A printer
- A screening board
- Paint
- Printing paper
- Six mobile phones
The total value of the seized items is estimated at Rs 5,23,900.
Modus Operandi Inspired by ‘Farzi’
The gang’s counterfeit operations were heavily influenced by the web series ‘Farzi.’ Their methods closely mirrored those depicted in the show, as reported by a senior police officer. The counterfeit currency was produced at a house in Arabhavi, Mudalagi taluk, primarily during nighttime.
Case Registration and Further Investigation
A case has been registered at the Gokak police station. Initial investigations revealed that the gang exchanged Rs 5 lakh in fake currency for Rs 1 lakh in genuine currency. Their operations spanned across Bagalkot, Mahalingapura, Gokak, and Mudalagi.
The police are conducting further investigations to uncover the full extent of the counterfeit operation and identify any additional individuals involved. They are also probing how deeply the web series ‘Farzi’ influenced the gang’s activities and whether there are any connections to other networks.
Conclusion
This bust highlights the influence of popular media on criminal activities and underscores the vigilance of the Karnataka Police in curbing such operations. The ongoing investigation aims to ensure that all involved parties are brought to justice and that similar operations are thwarted in the future.
