Two Namibians and one Rwandese suspect were arrested last week after they were allegedly caught counterfeiting banknotes in a Katutura shop.
Sandra Garises, spokesperson at Bank of Namibia (BoN), confirmed the news yesterday morning.
The Namibian Police have urged the public to be aware of the circulating banknotes.
“The counterfeits were discovered when two Namibian suspects and a Rwandese suspect were found counterfeiting banknotes at a central shop in Katutura.
“The suspects were arrested through an intelligence led operation, and have been remanded in custody after appearing in court on 30 September,” Garises said.
She said that all counterfeit notes were confiscated by police officers before they could be circulated to public.
“Equipment used were also confiscated in the process for further investigation,” Garises said.
She said that counterfeit notes are mostly exchanged at small businesses and home shops, as well as taxi services.
“The recipients of these notes may not be aware of the security features and fall victim to counterfeits, or those who are in a hurry and do not have time to verify.”
Garises reminded members to follow the three simple steps to check security features on banknotes.
“Step one – look: Take a careful look at the overall colours, portraits, and serial numbers, lift the banknotes to light and discover perfect see-through features and watermarks.
“Step two – tilt: This involves flipping the banknotes to check for colour-changing, dynamic features and glossy prints, check the multi-coloured security thread on the reverse.
“Step three – feel: Feel the unique banknote touch and raised prints by running your fingers along both sides of the banknotes, especially on the words Bank of Namibia, the main portraits, and the Braille dots for the visually impaired.”
Garises says that anyone found guilty of counterfeiting money is subject to a fine of not more than N$100 000, imprisonment for not more than five years, or both.
Source: namibian
